Few Australian children live in multigenerational households and not all children have relationships with grandparents. Early childhood educators can use their community partnerships to help children interact with elderly people.
Some children are interested in older people (e.g. Who are they? What do they do? Why are they different to me?), and all children benefit from relating to people in different age groups.
EYLF Learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) asks children to connect with people (4.4) and respond to diversity with respect (2.2).
Interacting with elderly people helps children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and an understanding of the reciprocal rights and responsibilities necessary for active community participation (2.1).
Family and community connections
Many early childhood services in Australia organise excursions so children can visit elderly people. These visits could be every week or month. Watch a video from UNSW, about children from a childcare centre connecting with residents in an aged care facility.
Familiarise yourself with community organisations that involve elderly people. Reach out and seek reciprocal partnerships. Organise activities that encourage cooperation and interaction. Arrange for children and elderly people to:
- make something together and then donate it to a community organisation
- volunteer together
- share stories about personal experiences (e.g. "When I was your age…")
- develop real and meaningful relationships.
Learning environments
Review your learning environments. Are they inclusive for elderly people who need mobility support? Is it possible that elderly people don't feel welcome at your service because it is too child-focused?
Are elderly people adequately and appropriately represented in your learning resources? Do they have diverse skin-types, interests and abilities? Do the elderly people featured in your books, puzzles and toys reinforce stereotypes?
Events
1st October is International Day of Older Persons
Discussions
- In many cultures, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, elders are respected for their wisdom and knowledge. Why do you think this is so? What sort of things do you think older people know about?
- Do you know an older person, maybe a grandparent or a friend? Tell a story about them.
- How can children help older people? How can older people help children?
- What changes happen in someone's life when they grow older?
Reflections
- What do your children think of elderly people? Are their beliefs correct?
- How do children benefit from a sense of community?
- Are your employees and volunteers from diverse age groups?