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Nursery children pose with care home residents and ducklings

Nothing but smiles at the George Mason Lodge Residential Care Home

Published: 3 July 2023
Filed under: Communications

Ducklings bring joy to the residents and children visiting the lodge

Residents at George Mason Lodge care home received a special visit from children at Footsteps Day Nursery earlier this summer.

As well as sharing the afternoon with residents at the Council-owned care home in Leytonstone, the children had an opportunity to play with some ducklings.

Five newly hatched ducklings were keeping cool in a paddling pool, just before greeting the group of curious toddlers.

Upon arrival, the children eagerly gathered by the pool. Then, with the help of the staff, the children took in turns to carefully cradle the baby ducks in their hands, while the garden filled with the sounds of their young chirping.

This special visit promoted intergenerational connections, as the two groups bonded over these little creatures.

Our intergenerational work, a key part of the Council’s ageing well strategy, can have a positive effect on wellbeing of people of all ages. This gives children the opportunity to develop their social skills and prevent loneliness in older adults.

Cllr Louise Mitchell, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said "The health and wellbeing of our residents is at the forefront of this Council’s aims to make Waltham Forest the best place to age well. Cross-generational activities can have a profound impact on the development of children and young people, enabling them to practice their social skills and learn how to work positively with others. For our older residents, such as those in George Lodge Mason Lodge, this type of group activity helps to combat isolation and provides social stimulation. It's great to see residents from two different generations learn from one another too."

Through initiatives like this, the community continues to come together, embracing empathy and compassion for humans and creatures alike.