Smiles for Miles as Young and Old Meet at SummitCare Playgroup

Laughter and learning are the order of the day at a special new playgroup that unites some of the youngest members of the community with senior residents.

The group, Wallsend Youngsters on the Summit, was established recently by Playgroup NSW and SummitCare Wallsend to foster a connection between generations, and is already proving a resounding success.

Held weekly, parents and carers of children aged zero to six are welcome to drop in to SummitCare’s residential aged care centre in Bent Street, Wallsend, on Mondays from 9.45 until 11.45am to meet with a select group of residents and share activities.

SummitCare CEO Cynthia Payne said the intergenerational playgroup included music, singing, art activities and stories.

“The smiles on our residents’ faces show how much they just love it when the children interact with them, and it is an important way they can retain links with the local community,” she said.

The parents of the playgroup children have the opportunity to make friends and create a network, as well as learn about the life stories of the elderly residents. For the children, attending playgroup can benefit their social, emotional, physical, cognitive and language development.

“There are also so many opportunities to enhance the wellbeing of our SummitCare residents in intergenerational playgroups – the social interaction can really spark lovely memories, and the connections they make can support their social and emotional needs,” Ms Payne said.

She said SummitCare was looking forward to the continuing growth and success of Wallsend Youngsters on the Summit, and to welcoming new members.

Karen van Woudenberg, Playgroup NSW Deputy CEO said, “Intergenerational playgroups bring together seniors, children and their parents. Interacting with seniors adds a new dimension to the playgroup experience and can be especially enriching for those who are not able to spend time with their grandparents.” 

Click here to find out more about SummitCare's aged care services.