Bridging the Age Gap at
Washington School
It was a sight to behold and one that caused many people to do a quick double-take. A line of wheelchairs making its way down the hallway at Washington Primary School is anything but typical.
The visitors were residents of Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Woodbury and they came to spend time with second graders in their classrooms. The intergenerational program was coordinated by Washington teacher Suzy Dinehart. The classes of teachers Joan Marie Balsari, Patricia Maltempo and Maria Lanzot also participated.
The second graders sang songs to their seasoned visitors, enjoyed shared conversations and showed off their work. The visitors read to the youngsters and the two generations later worked together on a craft-making project with impressive results.
Ms. Dinehart said the program provided a "positive impact on both the older generation and the younger generation." When told that one of the visitors is 101-years old, the teachers were astonished at how youthful she appeared. Students commented that they found the visitors to be "so nice."
"We will be going back to visit them in June for a picnic," Ms. Dinehart said. "The children are forming positive relationships with the residents and look forward to seeing them."