ECEC in focus: Bridging generations seniors and preschoolers connect at Springwood Preschool

Preschool’s intergenerational program brings together seniors and children in a celebration of connection, community and shared joy.

 

Springwood & District Preschool Kindergarten recently hosted a heartwarming event, uniting preschoolers with local seniors for a morning of stories, creativity and companionship. Held on Friday 13 June, the event is part of the preschool’s long-running intergenerational program, an initiative that sits at the heart of its commitment to holistic learning and strong community ties.

 

During the visit, children and older guests engaged in a range of shared experiences, including storytelling, arts and crafts, and morning tea. The event was filled with smiles, laughter and meaningful conversations across generations.

 

To understand the program’s intent and outcomes, The Sector spoke with Preschool Director Jessica Jefferies.

 

The heart of connection: Springwood’s intergenerational program

 

Fiona: What inspired Springwood Preschool to initiate these intergenerational visits, and what goals do you hope to achieve through them?

 

Jessica: Annette Rose, a long-standing and deeply valued staff member at Springwood Preschool, was the visionary behind our intergenerational program. In 2019, 

 

Annette was inspired by the ABC television series Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, which showcased the powerful impact of connecting young children with older adults. Motivated by the potential for mutual enrichment, Annette reached out to the Springwood Neighbourhood Centre with a heartfelt letter proposing a collaboration one where children and seniors, though at different life stages, could come together to share, learn, and build meaningful relationships.

 

While the program’s early days were met with the unexpected challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, the spirit of connection remained strong. In-person visits were paused, but the children continued to nurture their budding relationships through letters and drawings, which were delivered to the seniors. These small gestures carried great emotional weight and helped maintain the sense of connection during a time of physical separation. Once restrictions were lifted, the intergenerational program resumed with renewed energy and has continued to thrive. 

 

Throughout each term, seniors visit the preschool to engage in a variety of shared experiences, craft activities, singing, storytelling, and enjoying morning tea together. These regular visits have become a highlight for both the children and the seniors. Beyond the classroom, the seniors are warmly welcomed at special preschool events such as Mother’s Day, Family Day, and Christmas celebrations. 

 

These gatherings offer opportunities for seniors to meet families and deepen their connections within the broader community. Many families have shared stories of running into seniors in local cafés or shops, where spontaneous conversations and even shared meals have taken place. 

 

These moments reflect the genuine, reciprocal relationships that have blossomed relationships that extend beyond the preschool gates. This program has not only enriched the lives of the children and seniors but has also fostered a profound sense of belonging and community.  Through Annette’s vision and the collective efforts of staff, families, and community partners, Springwood Preschool has become a place where generations come together, learn from one another, and create lasting memories.

 

Fiona: How did the children respond to the seniors’ visit, and what kinds of interactions stood out to you on the day?

 

Jessica: The long-standing relationship between the children and seniors at Springwood Community is deeply embedded in the fabric of our preschool. Last Friday, a buzz of excitement filled the air as the children eagerly anticipated the seniors’ arrival. From the moment the day begins, they ask repeatedly, “When are the seniors coming?”

 

As the seniors’ car pulled up into the carpark, the children raced to the fence, calling out joyful greetings that were warmly returned by the seniors. This ritual has become a cherished part of our preschool rhythm, a testament to the strong bonds that have formed over time.

 

These relationships are nurtured not only through regular visits but also through ongoing conversations that continue throughout the children’s day, week, and term. The seniors are a constant presence in the children’s minds and hearts, even when they are not physically present. In each room, special boxes are set aside where children can place artwork and small creations, thoughtfully made with a particular senior in mind. These tokens are then gifted during visits, ensuring that even those seniors who cannot attend every week remain an integral part of the preschool experience.

 

It’s clear that the children have developed meaningful, individual relationships with specific seniors. This is beautifully evident in the way they create personalised artwork and eagerly await the moment they can share it with their special friend. These interactions not only enrich the children’s social and emotional development but also bring joy, purpose, and connection to the lives of the seniors.

 

Fiona: Are there plans to continue or expand this initiative, and how do you see it fitting into the preschool’s broader approach to learning and community connection?

 

Jessica: Springwood Preschool has thoughtfully expanded its intergenerational initiative to align with a broader approach to learning and community engagement. This program is no longer a standalone event; it is now an integral part of our preschool culture and curriculum.

 

To further support this connection, the preschool has invested in a growing library of books that highlight the importance of relationships with older generations. These stories are used in daily learning to help children develop empathy, understanding, and appreciation for people at different life stages.

 

The impact of this initiative extends beyond the preschool walls. Many families have expressed a desire to build relationships with the seniors, especially those who may not have grandparents or older relatives nearby. Some families now bring morning tea to share with the seniors during visits, creating a warm, welcoming environment that fosters genuine, reciprocal relationships. These connections have begun to flourish outside of the preschool as well. Families and seniors often recognise each other in the local community, leading to spontaneous conversations and even shared meals. 

 

These moments reflect the deep sense of belonging and mutual respect that this program has cultivated. Through these efforts, Springwood Preschool continues to build a strong, connected community where every generation is valued, and every relationship is nurtured.

 

Why it matters

 

Research shows that intergenerational programs can significantly benefit both children and older adults. 

 

For children, they support social development, empathy and awareness of aging. For seniors, they offer purpose, reduce isolation and contribute to wellbeing.

 

Springwood & District Preschool Kindergarten’s intergenerational program exemplifies how early learning services can lead the way in community building offering a replicable model for other ECEC settings nationwide.

 

To read more about Springwood & District Preschool Kindergarten visit here.