“I see first-hand how rewarding this is for both our residents and the children.”
~ Methuen Village Enriched Life Director Ashley Gonzales, whose son participates with his Y classmates
When active older adults and preschoolers come together, the result is bound to be laughter, energy and meaningful connection.
Recently, the social room at Methuen Village senior-living residences was filled with smiles as preschoolers from the Methuen YMCA visited for a tea party-themed craft and snack gathering. The children enjoyed juice and sweet treats alongside residents, and together they created silk flower arrangements in delicate china teacups — keepsakes the seniors proudly displayed in their rooms.
The gathering is part of a monthly partnership between the YMCA and Methuen Village, located on Gleason Street. Each month, either the residents visit the YMCA or the preschoolers travel by school bus to Methuen Village for creative projects and shared activities designed to foster intergenerational relationships.
“We connect every month,” said Noel Favazza, a YMCA preschool teacher. “In December, we enjoyed Christmas cookies, sang holiday songs and ended with a dance party in the gym. The children are completely different when they’re with the seniors. It’s like being with their second grandparents.”
Favazza noted that some children do not see their grandparents often, making the experience especially meaningful.
“It’s mutual — there’s love when they’re together,” Favazza said. “I see such a different side of the kids. They’re open to chatting and working on projects with the seniors. When residents need help, the children are eager to assist. It makes them feel important. Being together boosts everyone’s mood.”
The program began last fall. In November, students and residents gathered at the YMCA for a Friendsgiving luncheon, sharing a traditional Thanksgiving meal and completing seasonal crafts while waiting to be served.
“It was truly a wonderful time of togetherness,” said Cathy Redard, the YMCA’s executive director of child care. “For some, it may have been their only Thanksgiving meal. I’m so grateful we could share that time together.”
Methuen Village Enriched Life Director Ashley Gonzalez said she strongly believes in building community connections.
“Any way we can help our seniors engage in the greater community benefits everyone involved,” Gonzalez said. “The children learn things from the seniors that they wouldn’t experience in a typical school setting. Teachers tell me it gives the students an opportunity to practice empathy. The goodness reverberates throughout our building. We talk about the experience for days.”
Gonzalez noted that residents eagerly anticipate the monthly visits, with some even rescheduling appointments so they don’t miss the event. An added bonus for Gonzalez is that her 5-year-old son, Nico, participates through his YMCA childcare program.
“I see first-hand how rewarding this is for both our residents and the children,” she said.
Research supports the value of intergenerational programming. Studies show that when older adults have meaningful opportunities to engage with their community and feel part of something larger than themselves, they often experience improved health, reduced stress, and lower rates of depression and loneliness.
“We are so grateful for this partnership with Methuen Village,” Redard said. “Everyone is enriched by this experience. It’s beautiful to witness the smiles and joy on the participants’ faces. It truly is a highlight each month for our students.”
Flowers bring smiles! Just ask Methuen Village resident Marilyn Noble and preschooler Gianna Rodriquez.
Preschooler Francisco Melendez chats with Methuen Village residents Marguerite Carifio and Elaine Avery while making teacups decorated with silk flowers.
