At the South Shore YMCA Early Learning Center (ELC) in Hanover we have the pleasure of partnering with our neighbors from Benchmark at Hanover, an assisted living and memory care community. Residents from Benchmark visit our ELC to participate in fun activities with our students, including arts and crafts, playing drums and even working at our South Shore YMCA Family Farm.
Some residents join us for every visit and remember the kids when they come back. They get so excited to see them, and it is amazing to watch our students bond with the seniors. “We have as much fun as the kids do,” said one senior resident of Benchmark at Hanover, “This makes me feel like a kid again!”
Relationships between older and younger people can provide a sense of connection to the past and to the future; children form a better sense of identity and learn valuable life lessons, while seniors grow connections that keep them mentally and socially engaged.
“This is such a great opportunity for the children and for the seniors,” said one parent of an ELC student. “There are so many children who do not get to see their grandparents or even have grandparents, so having this opportunity is even more special.”
Being able to experience an intergenerational relationship is rewarding and important, both for students and seniors. We are so blessed to have our partnership with Benchmark at Hanover, and are excited to watch these relationships grow stronger over time.
