Meadowview of Clive residents’ faces lit up with smiles as Shuler Elementary fourth graders shared painted “happy rocks” with them, offering a simple but powerful example of how intergenerational activities enrich daily life in the community.
A Neighborly Act of Kindness
With Meadowview of Clive’s location in a residential neighborhood directly across the street from Shuler Elementary, it just makes sense for the seniors and students to mingle.
Leaders from both entities work together to make that a reality.
What are Happy Rocks?
Students painted happy rocks with colorful designs and uplifting messages as part of the Shuler for a Better World event.
“The goal was simply to spread joy, brighten someone’s day and send positive vibes to residents in our community,” says fourth-grade teacher Courtney Foertsch. “They were especially excited knowing their artwork would bring smiles to others.”
And that’s exactly what happened.
Sharing Stories and Smiles
Students didn’t just drop off the happy rocks and leave. They shared the rocks and stories about them.
“These gifts truly hit the mark in bringing smiles to our residents—not only in their playful nature, but also through the added joy of hearing the students share their stories behind their favorite paintings,” says Shawn, activities director at Meadowview of Clive. “It was incredibly touching.”
The fun didn’t end when the students left.
“Several residents stayed behind to carefully lay out all the rocks across the bistro counter to fully admire the students’ handiwork and share with each other their admiration,” Shawn says. “The room filled with delighted oohs and ahs as residents picked out their favorites and commented on what especially caught their eye.”
The Impact of Intergenerational Visits
“Our student visitors make a difference in our residents’ lives with every visit; they bring smiles and laughter and joy with every trip,” Shawn says. “As much as the students like visiting, the residents feel the same way.”
When children visit, joy reverberates throughout the community, encouraging residents to engage in activities.
“I see residents who rarely participate come out of their apartments to play bingo, help pass out candy at Halloween or stop to admire whatever talent the students have brought to share,” Shawn says.
Student visits can be especially moving and meaningful for independent living, assisted living and memory care residents alike.
“I see dancing when the students play music and I see tears of joy from our memory care residents as they listen to the band or hear the children sing,” Shawn says.
Why These Moments Matter
Information from organizations like the Eldercare Alliance highlights how intergenerational activities may support seniors’ wellbeing, including improved self-esteem and satisfaction, physical mobility and fitness, brain health and memory, meaningful relationships, mental health and attitude.
Generations United notes that “Evaluation data suggests they improve academic performance and various dimensions of health, and they bolster a strong sense of community and compassion.”
Gratitude for a Meaningful Partnership
Fostering relationships between seniors and children is powerful and we are thankful for the opportunities Shuler Elementary provides to do just that.
“I am grateful for our neighboring school bringing our generations together and enriching all our communities’ lives,” Shawn says. “We are blessed to have them as our neighbor. We look forward to every visit.”
To learn more about intergenerational activities and life at Meadowview of Clive, contact us today.
Located in a residential area, Meadowview of Clive has convenient access to Waukee, Urbandale and the Des Moines metro area via nearby Douglas Parkway.
Meadowview of Clive is managed by Cassia, whose mission is to foster fullness of life for older adults in the spirit of Christ’s love.
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