It’s All About Intergenerational Programming
By Ellen Gordon, Director of Resident Life, Peabody Campus
The Peabody Campus of the Chelsea Jewish Lifecare is very fortunate to have an on-site Early Childhood Center (ECC). These programs benefit our residents, while also reflectinh the intergenerational flavors of our combined communities. The North Suburban Jewish Community Center (NSJCC) was selected as the ECC program to occupy the Peabody campus. Their philosophy is very much in sync with the Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. To that end, these common goals have made this a true partnership – one that continues to flourish and grow.
Effective intergenerational programming is extremely powerful. Working with young children and frail elders presents not only unique developmental and generational challenges, but also extraordinary opportunities for learning and sharing. At the Peabody campus, intergenerational opportunities foster a sense of shared belonging and shared responsibility. Our programs provide diverse activities which increased participation and intergenerational bonding, resulting in reduced isolation, positive thinking and increased social interaction. Seniors have an opportunity to share knowledge, both in and out of the classroom, which makes them an active participant in the relationship. What’s most important: children in the ECC program appreciate people of all ages and abilities. In fact, our residents are often viewed as surrogate grandparents. There is such tremendous warmth and comfort in the relationships!
Activities programs for seniors, like the intergenerational programming on the Peabody Campus, provide seniors with a true sense of pride as well as enable them to contribute to the community. This, in turn, results in increased feelings of self-worth and improved life satisfaction. To see what a difference intergenerational programming makes in the lives of seniors, visit our Peabody Campus today!
