Watch Me Grow

Philosophy

WHY INTERGENERATIONAL CHILDCARE? Should seniors and toddlers go to day care together? New research suggests that doing so is good for both the young and the old. Once upon a time multiple generations of families lived together or in very close proximity and shared the duties of caring for young, old, and sick alike. Now babies live thousands of miles from their grandparents and aging adults live several states away from their children resulting in the elderly feeling more alienated and lonelier than ever before. Loneliness has been connected to a staggering 59% higher risk of declining health and 45% higher risk of death in older adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this sense of loneliness that has been increasingly impacting individuals of all ages. Elders are isolated in their homes, retirement communities, or long-term care facilities, unable to see their children and grandchildren. While infants and toddlers are too young to know what they are missing without seniors in their lives, aging adults are one of the best groups to spend time with young children. Not only can they pass on decades of wisdom, but they are also at a point in life where they have the time and patience to do so. Older adults are exceptionally suited to meet these needs in part because they seek—and need—purpose in their lives.

Benefits to Older Adults -enhanced life satisfaction/ well-being -increased self-esteem/ self-worth -Reduced feelings of loneliness -Decreased depression -Increased socialization and engagement -Increased confidence -Enhanced problem-solving skills -Enhanced communication skills -Increased understanding of children and child development -Increased comfort with technology -Increased physical activity -Increased brain stimulation -Increased perception of health

Benefits to Children -Improved self-esteem and self-confidence -Increased understanding of older adults and aging -Enhanced mood -Increased appreciation of diversity (e.g., age, disability) -Increased comfort interacting with older adults -Enhanced communication skills (e.g., listening, expressing feelings) -Improved vocabulary and reading -Increased ability to cooperate and problem-solve -Increased knowledge of aging and the life cycle -Improved academic skills -Improved fine and gross motor skills -Better eye-hand coordination