Little and Wise brings preschoolers and aged care residents together at Newcastle Libraries

newy.com.au – City of Newcastle is pairing preschool children with aged care residents in a new program at Newcastle Libraries aimed at building connections across generations.

The Little and Wise program has brought children from Merindah Children’s Centre together with residents from Uniting Koombahla aged care facility for guided sessions at Wallsend Library, with activities including storytelling, art, music, gardening, movement and technology-based learning.

“Libraries play an increasingly important role as welcoming places where people can come together, access support and build relationships,” Newcastle Libraries Director Julie Baird said.

“It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact, helping children build confidence and communication skills, while supporting older residents to stay socially connected and engaged in their community.

“The program is designed to bring generations together so they can learn from their shared experiences. These interactions build empathy, mutual respect and emotional connections that might not otherwise happen in our busy lives.”

Each session begins with group story time led by library staff using large-format picture books, before participants move into one-on-one reading and hands-on activities designed to encourage interaction, communication and creativity.

The inaugural four-week program wraps up at Wallsend Library this week before moving to Newcastle City Library for the next four weeks with participants from Maroba Aged Care and Cooks Hill Preschool.

“The program was very engaging, and the joy shown by both groups was truly a special, memorable experience. We have had a lot of positive feedback from the children and families as they have shared stories of the program at home,” Merindah Children’s Centre preschool educator Bella Goldfinch said.

“Seeing two different generations connect is truly wonderful,” Uniting Koombahla Leisure and Wellness Coordinator Irene Ross said.

“The little ones are learning how to engage with their wise friends, and wise friends enjoy watching their little friends mind explore the world. Our wise friends have so much fun taking part in activities with the little friends.”

“Supporting programs that bring our youngest and oldest residents together strengthens the social fabric of our city and ensures everyone has opportunities to participate in community life,” Councillor Deahnna Richardson said.

“The initiative reflects the evolving role of libraries as community hubs. Libraries are more than places to borrow books, they are welcoming spaces that support learning, connection and wellbeing.

“Little and Wise is a great example of how City of Newcastle is working with community partners to deliver programs that benefit both young children and older residents.”

Little and Wise is supported through the Australian Library and Information Association’s Community Cohesion Program, which delivers more than 750 learning programs across public and university libraries nationally. Following the completion of the first two rounds of the program, it will be evaluated to inform future delivery, with sessions currently limited to children from selected children’s centres and childcare facilities.