Thanks to all of our friends who particpated--for taking time out of their busy lives to serve others.
What We Did:
With the kids dressed in their Halloween Costumes, we went to a local Senior Care Facility to spread some festive cheer. I arranged a time with the facilities activities director in advance. This allowed for a guided tour of the welcoming patients rooms and avoided any of the patients who wouldn't be interested in the activity. We brought some little plastic Halloween trinkets for the children to hand to the seniors as a way to bring them together. We followed up our parade with a Halloween party at one of the participating families homes -- which was not servicey at all but sure added to the day's memorability!
How Long it Took:
45 minutes to an hour to interact with all of the interested patients.
How Much it Cost:
$6 on plastic trinkets (very optional, see next time).
Would We Do It Again?
Yes! Most of the children were very engaged and felt good about the service that they were providing. Some of the kids were over it sooner than others depending on their age and social skills. I think the activity accomplished what we hoped it would, a small chance to bring children and seniors in our community together and for both to enjoy each other.
Next Time:
ohh... lots of next times.
- Prepare better emotionally. The activity wears on your heart and brings up lots of questions, not so much for the kids as for the adults.
- Don't give out small plastic objects that can be put mouths. One of the seniors with dementia thought it was candy. Maybe candy next time.
- Show up on time :)
I just searched on line for Senior Care Facility and found http://www.seniorcareconnection.com/. They directed me to a few good places.
oh, this is so great. i loved the idea and tried to get it going here, but alas. the assisted living center must have already been booked because i called for a week and got no response. there were plenty of moms and kids who wanted to join in, though, so if we can just get a venue for next year, i think it will be great.
ReplyDeleteThis was a lot of fun. It was so interesting to see how the kids handled different situations depending on their ages. I can honestly say that these children brought smiles that day. Another great idea Jaymie.
ReplyDeleteJennifer K
looks like your project is going well! i am so happy to see all the great ideas you and others are coming up with. i have an idea that i will have to keep you posted on. keep up the good work everyone!
ReplyDeleteWe did this one! I will email you photos... Our experience was kind of mixed. I called the activities' coordinator at a retirement home close to us and asked if we could come and do a parade with the retirees. Instead, she invited us to their annual trick or treat party and encouraged us to bring as many people as possible since last year nobody showed up and the people were so sad. So I gathered lots of friends and about 15 families showed up. The coordinator met us, but when the kids went trick or treating to each of the doors there were only about 4 participators (but those 4 participators were really into it). Then we went to the main common area where everyone was gathered for their party and they kind of watched us and we watched them as we walked through and one man was wearing a Jason mask that completely freaked out the kids. I think next time we need to bring something to 'do' or give to them. Also, I think we need to talk more in-depth with the coordinator about how many people would be trick or treating, and if there weren't that many what other activities would be acceptable, that kind of thing. It was a good experience, but not a home run.
ReplyDelete