Tops Pokesdown on Wolverton Road, have re-started their Joining Generations programme this term with local care home, Signature, in Southbourne.
Tops Pokesdown has been visiting Signature, a home for residential and dementia care, every Wednesday. The children at Tops Pokesdown, have taken part in a range of activities with the residents, so far, they have played basketball, throw and catch, created autumn pictures, read Halloween stories and made fruit skewers for World Food Day.
Chloe Book, Deputy Manager at Tops Pokesdown said: “The children and residents have bonded so well this last term. The children often talk about the residents when they are at home, and they are always asking when we can go back next! This has been a very successful programme with many benefits and something we will continue for the foreseeable future.”
Many studies have shown that social interaction between children and the elderly not only decreases loneliness but can also delay mental decline, as well as promote a number of health benefits including reducing frailty. There are also a number of benefits to the children, including increased confidence, risk-taking and the opportunity to mix regularly with elderly people, which some children may not have the chance to do on a regular basis.
Tops Day Nurseries have over 30 nurseries across the South and Southwest. The eco-sustainable childcare provider offers Early Education and Care for children aged 3 months to school age, as well as before, after-school and holiday clubs for children up to 11.