The Intergenerational Project

Testimonials

In their own words

Reflections from educators, parents, children, and Grand Friends who've been part of the program.

A Grand Friend reading a book with preschool children
Child showing a drawing to a Grand FriendGrand Friend and child building with blocksGrand Friend and child gardening together

Educators

An educator guiding a Grand Friend and children in craft
“After a few weeks, it felt like we had family members visiting, and I could see how relaxed and happy the children were with them there.”
“It really enriched our preschool program and helped embed community connections within our practices.”
“I was initially curious to see how it would work, being a unique experience. As the weeks went by, I felt more and more certain that this really is a program that should continue.”
“I looked forward to the Grand Friends visiting. It felt like a wholesome and nurturing experience, which I enjoyed being part of.”
“Very beneficial for children and elderly friends, it's a beautiful program.”
“I think it was overwhelmingly successful, with so much joy from everyone involved - participants, children, educators, and families.”
“My understanding of how social isolation affects a person changed. I realised that older people are maybe hoping something like this would come into their lives and give them a purpose.”

Parents

A child giving a high-five to an elderly person
“My daughter seems really interested in how the older people feel. Grand Friends seems to be fostering a curiosity in her and an understanding and empathy for older people. Well done.”
“Such a positive initiative and well run by the team. It's been so special, and it was great to meet the Grand Friends. We had a surrogate preschool grandma! x”
“This is so amazing! I absolutely love that we are bringing an intergenerational program to preschool. So beneficial for all x”

Children

Children and Grand Friends in a circle activity
“One of our Grand Friends asked the children to guess how old he was. The children guessed… 50, 4, 3??? When our Grand Friend replied '90' one of the children exclaimed 'Wooah, that's AMAZING!'”
“Can you cuddle the Grand Friends? I would like to next time.”
“One of the children was struggling to open his lunch box. When a Grand Friend offered to help, the child said 'I don't want you to hurt your fingers.'”
“They are my friends. (pointing at the Grand Friends posters on display)”

Grand Friends

Artwork from a Grand Friends session
“Taking part in the Grand Friends program has been a lot of fun. It has given me fulfillment and some structure where most days usually blur into each other.”
“I have really enjoyed the privilege of spending time with the children. It's been the highlight of my week to have fun and conversations with so many children.”
“The Grand Friends coordinator noticed I was hesitant on my second day. She reassured me when I needed it. All staff helped me become more confident when interacting with the children. Grand Friends is an excellent program - I really enjoyed it and felt I was really making a difference to the children.”
“Preschool children are bundles of activity and joy. They are so energetic and full of happiness, it is energising to be in their presence. I am so lucky.”
“On a personal level it has given me a sense of belonging to a community and helped me have confidence to revisit skills from my work life.”
“I believe that my creative nature will be of benefit, and as a loving Grandmother of two young boys am so excited to be part of the Grand Friend Program. I love the honesty of little folk. - Grand Friend who lives a distance away from her grandchildren.”