Holly Blair and her two girls love finding fun and unique ways to learn.
The Barrie mother, who home-schools her oldest daughter, five-year-old Macy, has been bringing them to a local seniors home once a month since the summer to take part in some “intergenerational bonding” through the Life With a Baby series held at Barrieview in the city’s south end.
“Just being out in our community and with multi-generations is important. (For the kids) to be able to interact with seniors and not be afraid of maybe what they may look like with masks or medical stuff on … (and) be able to get along with anybody in the community of any age is super important to me,” she told BarrieToday.
Not far away, her girls work on Valentine’s crafts with one of the seniors.
“I think it is of value to us, but I also think it’s of value to the seniors to be able to be around little kids. We see them light up as soon as we come in (and) it’s a joy for us to be able to come in and hang out. It’s a blessing for everyone involved,” said Blair, adding anything that is free and that she doesn't have to plan is also a bonus.
Macy and two-year-old Emily were all smiles as they worked on crafts at the recent event.
Macy said she just “loves making stuff and doing things,” adding she really liked the stickers.
Adele Kostiak, who has joined in on the last several events, told BarrieToday she enjoys having something fun to look forward to.
“I like to have something to do. I have been down here for this three or four times and it makes all the difference for me," said the retired librarian. "I have grandchildren all over, but I don’t see them as much. I really appreciate this."
Daniella Calcagno, who works as the engagement manager at the Concert Way facility at Park Place, said it’s not just the residents who enjoy the monthly event.
“It’s a great opportunity for our residents to dive in there with the children and participate in crafts, story time, etc. We love hosting the toddlers and children in our home. It brings a sense of community into our community,” Calcagno said as she received a big bear hug from one of the children.
“It doesn’t matter if (the resident) is not one to normally participate in social activities. It brings a different group of residents out to socialize and it brings energy back into the building," she added. "Everyone loves being in the presence of young children and having kids running around.
"It just brings a smile to everyone’s faces … and we are so happy to see the residents interact with a different generation.”
