Love of reading brings together old and young in Saint John
Each week, children from Origins Natural Learning Childcare walk to the Rocmaura Nursing Home to work on their reading skills. The daycare program has worked with Rocmaura in the past, but this year the program included the Saint John Free Public Library.
"It's about building relationships between kids and parents, caregivers, seniors," said Heather McKend, the head of children's services at the library.
McKend said intergenerational reading programs can create a strong bond with young readers.
"They associate books with something really pleasurable and enjoyable," said McKend.
How does the program work?
The sessions between kids and seniors begin with some singing, followed by group storytime and then the kids grab a book and pair up with a substitute grandparent.
"It's about looking past a wheelchair," said Avril Wood-Toner, the executive director of operations at Origins.
"It's about looking past a walker."
Wood-Toner said many of the kids don't have day-to-day contact with their grandparents, so the sessions help bridge an age gap.
"It's just been a lovely heartwarming program," she said.
The reading sessions have now wrapped up for the summer and the group marked it with a special ceremony. After being handed a certificate for participating, Mary Gallagher said she wanted to have it framed.
'I love coming here every week'
Knowing the weekly visits are over isn't easy for the senior.
"I love coming here every week," she said, bursting into tears.
The kids also made a big impact on Mary MacDougall, who had a little fun when asked if she would take part next year.
"If I'm around, then yes," MacDougall said with a big laugh.
Luckily for both women, they likely won't have to wait that long. Origins Natural Learning Childcare is looking to expand the program into the fall and winter.
