Crossing the road to bridge the generation gap

Generations were bridged and years melted away last week as four residents of Dee Why Gardens, a retirement and nursing home village in Cromer, came to visit children attending our Cromer Vacation Care.

Kids aged 5-12 years were fascinated by the funny, entertaining, and descriptive stories Betty, Beryl, Phillip, and Thora told them about being children 80-90 years ago.

Healthy discussions ensued, comparing washing machines, cameras, entertainment, riding horses, outdoor toilets, electrical devices, dance styles, food, and what it was like living in Dee Why several decades apart.

The highlight of the visit was discovering the 90-year age gap between Betty (95) and Isabel (5) and their conversation comparing lives at a similar age.

Our older friends loved the session and commented on how well-behaved the children were. One senior was especially grateful for the interaction with the children after she was unable to visit family in QLD this Easter due to the Brisbane COVID outbreak.

The visit corresponds with a pen pal program between the children and several other Dee Why Garden residents over the past 12 months. The kids have been corresponding with the same person during this period, writing letters, making gifts and cards, and developing a special bond.

Following the visit, the children immediately asked when the next visit will happen, with some requesting to see a specific Dee Why Gardens friend next time.

With the session deemed mutually beneficial for the Vacation Care children and the Dee Why Gardens residents, it is expected the relationship will continue in the upcoming holidays.

Parents have also praised the initiative and love the connections that have been formed with some of the more vulnerable in our community. 

Find out more about our high-quality Vacation Care program.