In 2023, Meals on Wheels took a significant step towards fostering stronger community connections by launching intergenerational playgroups across South Australia. These playgroups have quickly become a beloved part of our programs, bringing together older adults, toddlers, and their families for joyful, creative sessions. Whether it’s crafting, acting playfully, or just being a little silly, these gatherings offer a unique space for different generations to share laughter and create lasting memories.
Building on the success of our playgroups, we introduced a new initiative targeting teenagers, called Rite Now!. This program aligns with the Year 9 curriculum of The Rite Journey, which focuses on guiding young adults towards resilience and mindfulness https://theritejourney.com/. As part of the program, we have participants fill out an ‘About Me’ sheet, highlighting their hobbies and interests—anything from “I love footy and cricket” to “I’m a big fan of KFC!”— we then pair them with an older participant who shares similar interests, where possible. (the schools separate the student’s into female of male classes for this subject).
Throughout the program, participants exchange worksheets on topics such as challenges or values and engage in face-to-face visits. For the boys and men, we organised a Games Day, where the games served as a bridge to ease any awkward silences. The girls and women’s program recently had its first face-to-face meeting, a Crafternoon, hosting many hands-on activities. The event was such a success that some participants spent all the time deep in conversation, leaving their crafts untouched!
Our success wouldn’t be possible without our invaluable partnerships. By collaborating with councils, aged care facilities, schools, and Playgroup SA, we’ve been able to extend our reach and impact to more community members.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce a new pilot program launching in Term 4 2024. This initiative is centred around a Christmas market, where we will recruit 20 older participants to join weekly classes. In small groups, they’ll create items for sale, drawing on the older friends unique skills—for example, a retired carpenter might craft simple wooden items.
As our programs continue to flourish, we’re excited to see what 2025 holds for Meals on Wheels South Australia’s intergenerational practice.
Story and Photos courtesy of Meals on Wheels
Speaking about the Program Sarah Harrison of Meals on Wheels SA said, “The AIIP framework has guided the development of our intergenerational programs, enabling us to design activities that are engaging for children, teenagers, and older adults. This in turn has developed growth and interest within our Meals on Wheels community.”
Here are also some quotes from one of the High School programs
Student Comments
“I feel more welcomed among older people, and I have a better understanding about the differences between me and an older person”
“I think old people are cooler than adults”
Older participants Comments
”It has reinforced my confidence in younger generations”
”I was heartened that my student was willing to engage and share their life’s experiences”
If you are interested in joining any of their Intergenerational programs in South Australia contact us at intergen@mealsonwheelssa.org.au
