Ten children, aged 3 and 4 years old, from Widcombe Acorns Pre School were welcomed at Bridgemead today. The children were all eager to join in the fun, making flower pictures, bouncing a teddy on fabric, playing with a giant balloon and singing songs.
Irene Weller, resident at Bridgemead said: “It’s always a good idea for children to come. I am very children orientated, I trained at Great Ormond Street, my husband was a pediatrician and I had four of my own as well as grandchildren and great grandchildren.”
Mary, another resident said, “It is something quite different and really cheers us up to hear children’s voices – modern children are so outgoing.” Jean Tranah said, “I’d like them to come again, it’s lovely to see all the children.” Iris Stanton said: “They enjoyed themselves and so did we – they are all so well behaved.”
Michelle Jenner, who co-ordinated the visit said:” I had a whale of a time!” and Jean Holden said while patting the balloon to the children;” Everybody likes it. I’m not sure what I’m doing but it’s fun!”
Pam, the Manager of Bridgemead said: “It is so lovely to see the interaction between the residents and the children, and the absolute delight on the residents’ faces is heart-warming. The children are so unselfconscious and talk to everyone, it is such a pleasure for us to have them here, and we look forward to having them back very soon.”
Dena Moore, leader of Widcombe Pre School, said: “Thank you so much for the warm welcome. I think it is incredibly beneficial for both the pre-school children and the residents to meet and we hope to bridge the generational gap and build up relationships with all at Bridgemead.”