Chasing bubbles, singing and clapping, leaning over a puzzle, making a handprint with paint, huddling close to read a story are scenes you might see at an intergenerational playgroup – a fun and proven way to help bridge the gap between generations.
Through the simple act of play, intergenerational playgroups are creating genuine connections between young and old, and offering a powerful way to ease loneliness among older Australians, encourage child development, nurture wellbeing and create stronger communities.
Seniors participating in ‘ageless play’ report feeling less isolated and depressed, have improved self-esteem and a renewed sense of purpose. Children gain social and communication skills, emotional intelligence and a greater understanding of older people. Intergenerational activities also benefit the wider community, with personal stories passed down from one generation to another and relationships strengthened. This connection and understanding fosters a culture of inclusivity, respect and support across age groups.
Intergenerational playgroups are a wonderful way to bring together the young and young at heart. Ageless play is about reconnecting communities through creativity, music, laughter and fun. By bringing young children and older people together, we can strengthen relationships and communities, one play session at a time. For everyone involved, including the facilitators, it’s a heartwarming experience.
Facilitating Intergenerational Play
Not-for-profit Play Matters Australia is the country’s largest organisation focused on play. Among the hundreds of play experiences it facilitates, more than a dozen are intergenerational playgroups, many of which are held at aged care homes. Embedding intergenerational play within aged care and community services enhances quality of life for older Australians, and we encourage all aged care providers to consider how it might work for them.
Hosting intergenerational playgroups is a wonderful way to support resident wellbeing and community engagement outcomes, and our role is to help aged care providers and other organisations embark on this rewarding endeavour. To help organisations develop and implement intergenerational playgroups, we have created the Ageless Play Activity Kit and Ageless Play Music at Playgroup guides with tips and play ideas. You can download these resources for free from our website.
Setting Up an Intergenerational Playgroup
There are some key actions that will support a successful intergenerational playgroup. To maximise the benefits, it’s important to start with careful planning, decide on an appropriate location and activate it as a welcoming space, and maintain a roster of engaging activities for participants to enjoy.
When planning your intergenerational playgroup, it’s a good idea to reach out to preschool playgroups in your local area to seek out partnership opportunities. Collaborating with established playgroups allows you to access potential participants as well as learn from playgroup leaders.
Music and movement activities, such as ribbon wand dance parties or simple sing-alongs using classic songs, like ‘Baa Baa Black Sheep’ and ‘Old MacDonald had a Farm’, are ideal. Simple art and craft, bubble blowing, storytelling, puzzles, multicultural celebrations and even video games can engage participants of all ages. Being flexible and following the interests of participants ensures activities feel organic and fun, and encourages genuine relationship building. Supporting older people and children to lead some of the activities gives them new experiences and increases engagement.
Creating a welcoming space for both generations is just as important as the activities you organise. Arrange furniture in a circle to promote connection, ensure the environment is accessible for people using mobility aids and leave plenty of space for strollers. Help participants feel at ease through warm greetings, use of name tags and plenty of encouragement.
Establishing predictable routines – such as regular greetings, group activities and goodbye rituals – supports emotional safety and belonging and helps participants feel secure. In addition, by maintaining a regular cycle of playgroups, everyone has something to look forward to each week.
There will always be things you can improve on, to ensure your intergenerational playgroup is a success. Facilitators can debrief after each session to determine what worked and what could be improved. Capturing feedback from participants, including non-verbal input from children, ensures the program evolves and everyone gains maximum benefit from this wonderful opportunity.
Top Tips for Providers:
- partner with local playgroups
- create a welcoming space
- plan appropriate activities
- allow adults and children to lead
- build routines
- learn and improve
Penny Creamer
CEO, Play Matters Australia