At Robert Harvey House, we believe that some of the most powerful connections come from the simplest of moments—like sitting side by side and sharing a story. Last week, we were delighted to welcome back the children from St Augustine’s Primary School for one of their visits, and it was, once again, a highlight for both our residents and our young visitors.

These visits are more than just a lovely way to spend the morning. They’re part of something much deeper—a growing body of research shows that bringing young and older generations together through shared activities like reading can have lasting benefits for everyone involved.

A room filled with laughter and learning

As the children filed into the lounge, carrying their favourite books and accompanied by their teachers, the smiles on our residents’ faces said it all. For many, the joy of seeing young children full of energy and curiosity is a reminder of family life, cherished memories, and the simple happiness that comes from feeling connected.

The children mingled with the residents, reading aloud from picture books and short stories with individuals or small groups. These shared moments help bridge the gap between generations. The children also learn so much by spending time with people from a different age group because it’s not something they all experience every day.

Building confidence and connection

Reading together helps children grow in confidence. With a kind and interested listener beside them, they practice reading aloud, explore new vocabulary, and develop social skills like listening, turn-taking and empathy. For children who may be shy or uncertain, reading to someone who shows gentle encouragement can be a huge boost.

For our residents, the benefits are equally important. Regular interaction with young people is known to reduce feelings of isolation and improve emotional wellbeing. Having a young visitor share a story or ask a question gives residents a renewed sense of purpose and joy—and often brings back memories of their own childhoods or experiences as parents and grandparents.

It’s also an activity that stimulates the mind. Engaging with a story, responding to a child’s questions, or simply laughing together at a funny moment in a book helps keep cognitive pathways active and alert.

More than just a visit

These visits are a regular feature at Robert Harvey House, and part of our wider commitment to enriching the daily lives of our residents through community connections. The children from St Augustine’s have become familiar faces, and the bonds that are forming are genuinely heartwarming.

This kind of intergenerational contact is especially valuable in a care home setting. It reminds everyone that age is just a number, and that joy, curiosity and kindness can be shared across a lifetime.

A thank you to our visitors

We’re incredibly grateful to the staff and pupils of St Augustine’s Primary School for their continued involvement. These visits are a great examples of the power of community and the difference that small acts of togetherness can make.

We’re already looking forward to the next one—and judging by the photos from the day, so are our residents!

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