A care home in Oswaldtwistle has started an intergenerational toddler group to help residents gain a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Rainbow Tots Intergenerational Group, a new group that brings together babies and toddlers with residents of Pendlebrook Care Home, held its first meeting on Thursday, October 12.
The group was a success, with approximately 20 babies, toddlers, and their parents coming along to enjoy playing with toys, making music and singing nursery rhymes together with the residents.
Claire Rothwell, the activity coordinator at the care home, was delighted with the turnout and the response from both the residents and the children.
She said: "It was so lovely to see everyone interacting and having fun together.
"The residents really enjoyed spending time with the children, and the children seemed to love being around the older people."
One of the residents, Norma Roundell, shared that she had a lovely time at the group and couldn't stop smiling.
She said: "I loved playing with the babies and chatting to their mums.
"They are so lovely and it reminded me of when my own children were young. I am looking forward to seeing them all again.”
One of the parents who attended the first meeting, Sarah Jones, was really impressed with the group.
She said: "It was such a great experience for my daughter. She loved playing with the toys and singing songs with the residents.
“It's so important for children to have the opportunity to interact with older people, and this group provides a perfect opportunity for that."
The Rainbow Tots group is designed to provide a fun and stimulating environment for babies and toddlers, while also giving them the opportunity to interact with older people.
Intergenerational groups have been shown to have a number of benefits, including reducing social isolation, improving mental health, and promoting cognitive development.
For children, intergenerational groups can help to:
- Improve social skills
- Develop empathy and compassion
- Learn about different cultures and generations
- Gain wisdom from older adults
The intergenerational group can help residents gain a sense of purpose and meaning in life
For older adults, intergenerational groups can help to:
- Reduce loneliness and isolation
- Improve mood and cognitive function
- Reduce the risk of depression and anxiety
- Gain a sense of purpose and meaning in life
The Rainbow Tots group will meet every Thursday morning from 10.30am to 11.30am. All parents and carers with babies and toddlers are welcome to attend.
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