Young Hearts, Wise Minds

Young Hearts, Wise Minds: Intergenerational Program Builds Community at The Y Canberra Region Belconnen

The Y Canberra Region’s Belconnen Early Learning Centre is strengthening community connections through a unique intergenerational program that brings preschoolers and aged care residents together in a heart warming and impactful way. It was wonderful to welcome the ACT Government’s Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry to join in the fun at the Y Belconnen ELC. 

First introduced in 2013, the intergenerational program is now embedded into the preschool curriculum and continues to thrive more than a decade later. Each week, up to 22 preschool children aged three and five join residents from Kangara Waters Retirement Village to spend time with each other in a structured, yet joyful environment.

The program, led by a dedicated Early Childhood Teacher and a passionate team of educators, is designed to promote empathy, acceptance, and understanding. It introduces children to the natural process of aging and supports them in forming respectful, compassionate relationships with people who may have physical or cognitive differences.

“Our children are learning from a generation with incredible life experience,” says Cara Moore – Executive Manager Children’s Services “It’s a beautiful exchange—while the children bring joy, energy and curiosity, the residents offer wisdom, patience and a sense of calm that only comes with age.”

The benefits are mutual. For residents, the weekly visits ease feelings of loneliness and social isolation, and often provide a renewed sense of purpose. For children, the experience fosters social skills, emotional intelligence, and a deepened understanding of community and inclusion.

“Intergenerational programs like this one don’t just create heart-warming moments, they build stronger and safer, more inclusive and connected communities” said Kirsty Dixon – CEO.

The Y Canberra Region recognises the invaluable role elders play in shaping the next generation. This program exemplifies how two seemingly distant sectors—early education and aged care—can come together to form something truly special.