Intergenerational Program

Our Intergenerational Programme at Latvian Gardens Aged Care facility is a unique initiative designed to foster meaningful interactions between the generations.

The program is open to four-year-old kindergarten children at Wantirna South Early Learning Centre and is designed for children to meaningfully engage with elderly residents on a regular basis, with the aim to create lasting connections, promote emotional wellbeing, and encourage shared learning experiences. The children and residents spend time together in a fun environment with activities such as singing, gardening, games and art and crafts activities. The progream serves as a bridge that connects generations, fosters empathy, and creates lasting community bonds, by providing both the children and elderly residents with meaningful interactions.

The programme benefits children by providing them with an opportunity to develop social skills around empathy, patience and effective communication. Engaging with the elderly residents helps children appreciate different life stages promoting an understanding of ageing and the importance of community. For the residents of Latvian Gardens, the benefits include the joy and energy that children bring with regular interactions. This can improve mental health, reduce feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of purpose.

At Wantirna South ELC, we believe that this program works to strengthen the social fabric of our local community and reinforces the values of care, respect, and lifelong learning. This program re-commences at Wantirna South ELC for the New Year from Late Feb 2025.