Intergenerational Program
TLC Early Learning offers a unique intergenerational program consisting of regular activities with residents of the co-located residential aged care home, Whitewater.
Jellyfish - TLC Early Learning's Intergenerational Program
TLC Early Learning’s curriculum is enhanced by “JELLYFISH: Joining Enriching Learning Laughter Young Fun Intergenerational Supporting Happiness” an intergenerational program in which children participate in learning with and from residents of the co-located TLC Aged Care home, Whitewater.
Our intergenerational program encompasses opportunities for children to learn and grow with older people. This learning takes many forms, including activities such as Tai Chi, memory games, reading and storytelling, singing, drawing, playing musical instruments, and gardening.
The Research
TLC Early Learning is working in collaboration with Melbourne University and Griffith University.
Professor Anneke Fitzgerald, Department of Business Strategy and Innovation of Griffith University is involved in TLC Early Learning’s intergenerational program. A pioneer in intergenerational research, Anneke is the founder of the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice, which aims to consolidate evidence with practice. This work measures the effects of intergenerational learning programs on socioeconomic markers, workforce sustainability and educational theory for older people.
An intergenerational model within four settings has already been trialed to investigate its feasibility and sustainability in the Australian context.
"Stepping into the TLC Early Learning centre and TLC Aged Care home in Mordialloc, Victoria, is a profound experience. This purpose-built facility stands as a shining example of how TLC has not only envisioned but beautifully executed their commitment to intergenerational practice."
The Benefits
A special synergy exists between children and older people. Our intergenerational program brings different generations together to share knowledge, values, experiences and skills that are mutually beneficial and nurture positive relationships.
Intergenerational programs have considerable benefits that include:
- strengthening communities to become more age-friendly by breaking down barriers between ages
- promoting understanding, respect, and sharing of ideas, knowledge, and experience
- teaching the young about ageing while reminding older people about youth
- establishing relationships that help diminish the impact of declining physical and mental health on older people
- establishing relationships that help create a sense of connection supporting the children’s emotional intelligence development
- improving health outcomes and quality of life for older people
- building self-esteem and satisfaction for both age groups through the learning of new skills.
Book a Tour
Schedule a tour today to experience TLC Early Learning Mordialloc firsthand and learn more about our leading curriculum and intergenerational program.