Today, we spend hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars each year on classes to help our children get ahead.
But when it comes to raising kind, empathetic children, could one of the best lessons be found somewhere unexpected?
Across Singapore, a growing number of preschools are bringing children and seniors together through intergenerational programmes.
While the idea may sound unusual at first, the goal is simple: create meaningful relationships between the youngest and oldest members of our community.
What are intergenerational programmes?
Intergenerational programmes are structured activities where preschool children regularly interact with older adults in nursing homes, senior care centres or integrated community spaces.
Rather than making occasional festive visits, these programmes encourage consistent interactions through activities such as:
- Storytelling
- Singing and music sessions
- Arts and crafts
- Gardening
- Baking
- Reading together
- Simple games and conversations
Several organisations in Singapore have embraced this model. At places like St Joseph’s Home and St John’s–St Margaret’s Village, children and seniors meet regularly, creating genuine friendships instead of one-off encounters.
It is a simple concept, but one with meaningful outcomes for both generations.
Why does it matter for children?
As parents, we naturally want our children to be intelligent and capable. We sign them up for phonics, swimming, coding, robotics and music because we know these skills can benefit them in the future.
But emotional intelligence is just as important.
Empathy isn’t something children can memorise from a worksheet. It develops through everyday experiences, observing emotions, listening to others and learning to care beyond themselves.
When children spend time with seniors, they are exposed to experiences that don’t usually happen in a classroom.
They learn to:
- Listen patiently instead of interrupting.
- Notice when someone needs help.
- Communicate with people of different ages.
- Respect people whose abilities may be different from their own.
- Appreciate stories and experiences from another generation.
These small interactions gradually shape how children see the world and the people around them.
The benefits go both ways
The impact isn’t limited to children.
Many seniors participating in these programmes report feeling happier and more connected. Having young children around often brings energy into their day and gives them opportunities to share stories, teach simple skills or simply enjoy companionship.
Instead of seeing ageing as something distant or unfamiliar, children begin to understand that older adults are people with fascinating life experiences, personalities and wisdom to share.
That shift in perspective can help reduce age-related stereotypes from an early age.
Can parents create similar experiences at home?
Not every preschool offers an intergenerational programme, but parents can still encourage these connections in everyday life.
You could:
- Visit grandparents regularly, even if it’s just for an afternoon.
- Encourage your child to chat with elderly neighbours.
- Volunteer together at community events involving seniors.
- Ask grandparents to share stories from their childhood.
- Create handmade cards or gifts for older relatives.
- Celebrate birthdays and festive occasions across generations.
The conversations don’t have to be long or complicated. Even small, regular interactions can help children build confidence and empathy over time.
More than another enrichment class
There is nothing wrong with enrichment classes. They help children discover interests, build skills and gain confidence.
But perhaps not every valuable lesson comes with a weekly timetable or a certificate at the end.
As technology becomes increasingly woven into our children’s lives, qualities like kindness, compassion and communication may become even more important than ever.
Sometimes, the most meaningful lessons don’t happen in a classroom.
They happen while listening to a grandparent’s story.
They happen while helping an elderly person carry something.
They happen through a simple conversation between two generations who, despite their age difference, have more in common than we might think.
As parents, maybe that’s worth making time for.
At KIDYOU NOT, we believe raising a child isn’t just about preparing them for exams. It’s about preparing them for life. And sometimes, life’s greatest teachers have the most wrinkles and the warmest smiles.
Hello! I am Mummy Kim!
A beauty-loving mum who believes that looking good and feeling good go hand in hand. My parenting mantra is raising happy, confident kids with strong self-esteem! Between facial masks and storybooks, I’m all about nurturing both inner and outer beauty, for myself and my little ones.
Join KidYouNot SG Parenting Community
Sign up to become a member and gain access to exclusive parenting tips, special deals, and early updates on new products and events.
Follow us on Instagram and Telegram to connect with other parents, share your journey, and enjoy fun, supportive content every day!
