Intergenerational learning involves different generations, from children and young adults to the elderly, coming together to learn from each other in ways that are mutually beneficial. This approach fosters shared learning and understanding across age groups and creates opportunities for shared experiences, knowledge exchange, and personal growth.
“Intergenerational practice is not a new concept. People of different ages often speak of the enjoyment and the benefits of being together, getting to know one another, learning from each other and having fun. Age often doesn’t mean a thing when they get together.” – Care Inspectorate (Bringing Generations Together)
In early learning and childcare settings, it is beneficial to select activities where children and adults can converse while they engage in play, allowing them to discover common interests, despite their age differences. Activities such as storytelling, sensory play, outdoor adventures, and skills sharing are particularly effective in facilitating these interactions.
A key strength of intergenerational learning for children is the sense of being loved and cared for when interacting with older adults. The positive relationships children form with their older friends make them feel secure and valued, which in turn boosts their confidence and self-esteem, and enhances their language development and literacy skills. This reflects the belief that emotional, social, and cognitive development are closely interconnected, aligning with a nurturing approach to education.
According to Eleanor Smith, Service Manager at Strathisla Children’s Centre in Keith, Moray:
“Since our first visit to Taylor Court in 2023, the children and residents have developed wonderful relationships. Practitioners have noticed the positive impact on children and adults and their warm and nurturing interactions with each other. Intergenerational experiences for our children and older adults promote communication and social experiences and support all areas of well-being. They are said to be a bridge between two worlds, connecting two generations together. We observe both generations’ excitement, joy and love when they spend time together.”
Intergenerational learning also provides rich opportunities for children and older adults to learn together, from each other, and about each other within diverse, real-life social and cultural contexts. These experiences foster children’s curiosity, exploration, and the development of new knowledge, which are key aspects of positive learning. Children also build critical life skills such as resilience and problem-solving.
Intergenerational learning empowers children by giving them meaningful social roles, which fosters a sense of citizenship and community contribution from an early age. In Scotland, where community ties are strong, intergeneration learning not only benefits participants by building lasting, respectful relationships between generations but also strengthens the wider community. Through shared activities like singing, arts, and outings, children and older adults form bonds that enhance community cohesion and highlight children’s potential as contributors to social capital.
At Flexible Childcare Services Scotland, a visit to one local care home, Jarvis Court near our NESCol Nursery in Fraserburgh was a wonderful opportunity to connect the children with the elderly residents. They were excited to engage with the residents, sharing play experiences like building with magnet tiles and colouring. This interaction not only boosted their confidence in a new environment but also began to shift their perceptions of older people.
Kim Gairns Service Manager at NESCol Nursery said:
“The children came back talking about how the residents were helping them colour and build. Getting out into our community supports our children in feeling more confident when they are challenged with a new environment. Alongside being in a new environment, children can benefit from the praise and support they receive from the care home residents and staff.”
In a nutshell, intergenerational learning is a powerful approach to education and community-building that has far-reaching benefits for all involved. It offers a unique opportunity to bring generations together in meaningful ways. By engaging in activities that promote mutual learning and understanding, children and older adults alike can grow, thrive, and contribute to a more connected and compassionate society.
