Red Robins

Red Robins nursery in Caldicot has transformed weekly visits to a nearby dementia group into a meaningful learning experience. The nursery team recognised that community connection should include all ages. Their simple approach brings together two to four year olds with elderly neighbours, creating regular opportunities for interaction that benefit both groups. What began as occasional visits has now become an integral part of nursery life, showing that learning extends far beyond classroom walls.

Red Robins brings together the different generations by:

• taking small groups of children to visit the local dementia support group every Friday morning
• encouraging conversations between children and elderly participants through show-and-tell opportunities
• sharing activities between generations, including colouring, games, jigsaw puzzles and parachute play
• bringing homemade treats, flowers and crafts as gifts for the elderly participants
• participating in joint celebrations, including a special invitation to the group's Christmas party
• building these visits into their regular routine, creating consistent and meaningful relationships

Although initially shy, the children have grown increasingly confident in these social interactions, developing skills they now use when meeting any visitors to their nursery.

• enhanced communication skills and increased confidence in children
• meaningful social connections for elderly people
• improved well-being for both generations
• children develop empathy and understanding of different life stages
• strengthened community bonds beyond the nursery walls

"This is the highlight of my week seeing the children, I didn't have any of my own" (Dementia group participant)

"I like giving them flowers, because it makes them happy" (child from Red Robins)