Our residents connect with nursery children through music and play

The three and four-year-olds from Childsplay Day Nursery in Colchester are welcomed each week to Alderwood Care Home where they join in fun activities with the residents.

Music plays a key role in the weekly visits. Resident Betty Salter, aged 97, plays the piano so that her fellow residents and the children can enjoy a sing-along. The residents teach the youngsters a song that they know, and the children teach the residents one of theirs.

Coming from a musical family and having played both piano and organ for her local church and children’s dance classes, Betty continues to share her passion with a new generation.

“I learnt to play the piano when I was seven years old and still love to play now, 90 years later!” explained Betty who made Alderwood her home in March last year.

“I love to hear the children sing and watch them dance to the music – it’s such a nice feeling. It makes me happy that I can contribute to the visits by playing the piano, it’s always been a joy to play for children.”

The interactions have fostered genuine bonds, with both groups forming special connections that grow stronger with each visit.

Resident Sue Weavers, 75, said: “I like how much the children enjoy the crafts. They are very sweet and it brings back memories of when my children were young.”

For others, the visits have led to meaningful friendships. Sheila Hills, 86, added: “I love it when the children visit, I really enjoy their company. I now recognise some of their faces  and we have little friendships.”

Laura Birch, the care home’s lifestyle lead, highlights the wider impact of the initiative. She said: “It has a wonderful impact on our residents, bringing laughter and energy into the home and forging meaningful connections.

“It’s especially lovely sharing music—learning the children’s songs while singing familiar favourites our residents remember from their younger years.

“Intergenerational projects like this are so valuable, helping to boost wellbeing, provide companionship, and build understanding between generations. It’s a joy to see the positive difference it makes.”

The regular visits have quickly become a highlight for everyone involved. The children have also been invited to a special Easter party at the care home.

Jess Duck, a nursery practitioner at Childsplay Day Nursery, said: “The children absolutely love visiting Alderwood. They are always excited and often ask when we are going back to see their friends.

“There are lovely activities laid on for them to do and it’s lovely to watch the bonds with the residents grow.”

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Alderwood is a 65-bed care home located on Essex Hall Road in Colchester. The team provide residential, nursing, dementia, and specialist end of life care. Alderwood has a highly coveted 10/10 rating for reviews on carehome.co.uk.