Grand-friends and toddlers donned party hats, blew bubbles and tucked into cake as they celebrated the first birthday of the Herd Intergenerational Learning Centre at Andrew Kerr Care Community.

The centre, which is under the same roof as the aged care facility, has gone from strength to strength over the last year, with the residents still captivated by the laughter and sunshine the children bring into their lives.

“We find ourselves baby talking sometimes,” resident Rose Smith laughs as she shows us her cartooned timetable with daily activities with the children.  She and her husband, Barry have had precious times playing bubbles, storytelling and flower arranging. “There is always something to look forward to each new day!” says Rose.

Pat, who has only been at the AKC Community for two weeks, is fully enjoying the company of the toddlers. “I can’t really imagine life without seeing and hearing the children,” she says.

This was evident at the birthday party in the beautiful sensory garden at AKC.  Toddlers played bubbles and asked their grand-friends to paint their hands.

Early childhood educators and Herd co-founders, sisters Fiona and Anna Glumac are thrilled at the progress made in one year.  “You mean a lot to the families’ and the children’s lives,” Anna said in her speech, “thank you so much to the UA team who feels like an extended family.”

The intergenerational program has created unique bonds between the toddlers and the residents. Children who have not spent time with older people before are now regular visitors to the aged care facility creating precious memories for them and for the residents! Residents are also spending less time in their rooms, and more time telling stories from the toddlers’ favourite books.

“What we have achieved in Mornington in just 12 months is truly amazing,” General Manager Victoria Vicki Jacques summarises.

Return to Inside Story