Intergenerational Program Proves its Value at St. Francis

Several things distinguish us from other facilities. One is our in house Bellingham childcare facility, which is available to the general public and offered to our staff at a discount.

Thanks to a partnership with the State of Washington and Head Start, there are joyous sounds of youths ages 1-6 that fill our halls—and multiple intergenerational activities for seniors and children.

The St. Francis intergenerational program provides a wonderful opportunity for children and residents to establish nurturing relationships through spontaneous interactions and a variety of planned activities at senior's discretion. Intergenerational activities range from a hug, a song, a storytelling session, to art projects, baking projects and even walks in the neighborhood. For instance, during last Halloween some residents gave "trick or treats" to children and attended a joint event that included bobbing for apples, facing painting and more intergenerational activities.

We find our intergenerational program is an excellent learning tool for children to gain respect and understanding of people with disabilities. The benefits for the residents are many—a renewed feeling of self-worth and purpose and a lift to one's spirit by being around an environment that's full of life.

Children receive Head Start services within St Francis’ quality Bellingham childcare environment. They also receive:

• Rich learning experiences
• Social interactions with peers
• Support in meeting their individual goals
• Screenings for health, social and cognitive development
• Licensed care, Monday-Friday

Besides Head Start, St. Francis partners with Connections Speech and Language Clinic and Interfaith Mobile Dental Clinic—providing a comprehensive resource for all families.

What's more, our Bellingham childcare facility is supported by the St. Francis Foundation, which raises money to provide scholarships for those in need.

Intergenerational Programs appear on the monthly calendar with an asterisk *

January 2012 Recreation Therapy Program Calendar.pdf

Intergenerational programs for the month: 

Floor Bowling: Thursday, January 5
Jumping Pepper (Science Exp): Monday, January 9
Making Homemade OJ: Thursday, January 12
Picture Sharing: Monday, January 16
Watercolor Art: Thursday, January 19
Story Time - Winnie the Pooh: Monday, January 23
Laughter Group: Monday, January 23
Paint & Read- Mouse paint: Thursday, January 26
Crazy Crayon Coloring: Monday, January 30
Simple Pleasures: Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m.