Intergenerational Grandfriends programs are available at Little Scholars School of Early Learning across 18 campuses in South East Queensland. These programs connect children with community elders to foster social connection and cultural respect. Families in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay can access these experiences through our dedicated early learning centres.

What is the Intergenerational Grandfriends Program?

The Intergenerational Grandfriends program is a structured initiative that brings older community members into early learning environments. It is designed to bridge the generational gap by allowing children to interact with seniors in a safe and supervised setting. This approach supports social development by exposing children to diverse life experiences and perspectives.

At Little Scholars, we view this program as a vital component of holistic education. It is not merely a visit but an ongoing relationship that enriches the daily learning environment. Children learn empathy, patience, and respect through these meaningful interactions. The program aligns with our broader commitment to community engagement and inclusive education.

Gold Coast Campus Locations

Families residing in the Gold Coast region have access to the Grandfriends program at multiple Little Scholars locations. Our campuses are strategically placed to serve various suburbs, ensuring convenient access for local families. The program is integrated into the daily curriculum, allowing for regular and consistent interaction between children and their Grandfriends.

Key locations on the Gold Coast include Ashmore, Burleigh, Burleigh Waters, Nerang, Pacific Pines, Parkwood, Ormeau, Ormeau 2, Ormeau Village, Stapylton, and Yatala. Each campus tailors the program to the specific age groups and interests of the children enrolled. For example, the Nerang campus has featured community members who became regular participants through our street library initiative. This local connection strengthens the bond between the childcare centre and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Brisbane and Ipswich Locations

In the Brisbane metropolitan area, Little Scholars operates campuses in Deception Bay, Deception Bay North, George Street (Brisbane City), and Redland Bay. These locations provide the same high-quality intergenerational experiences as our Gold Coast sites. The program is available across all age groups, from nursery to kindergarten, ensuring that every child can benefit from these connections.

Families in Ipswich can access the program at our Karalee and Augustine Heights campuses. The George Street campus in Brisbane City offers a unique urban setting for these interactions. By spreading the program across these diverse locations, we ensure that the benefits of intergenerational learning are accessible to a wide demographic. This geographic spread allows us to support families across the entire South East Queensland region.

Benefits of Intergenerational Learning

Research and educational practice suggest that intergenerational programs offer significant developmental benefits. Children who engage with older adults often show improved communication skills and increased emotional intelligence. The program is a practical application of social learning theory, where children model behaviours and attitudes observed in their elders. This exposure helps children understand the value of community and mutual respect.

For the seniors involved, the program provides a sense of purpose and connection. Many participants report feeling valued and appreciated for their life experiences. This reciprocal relationship creates a positive feedback loop that benefits both generations. At Little Scholars, we facilitate these connections through structured activities and informal interactions. The Intergenerational Program page provides more details on how these sessions are conducted and the types of activities involved.

How to Enrol in the Program

Enrolment in the Intergenerational Grandfriends program is typically included as part of the standard early learning services at Little Scholars. Families do not need to apply separately for this specific initiative. Instead, it is woven into the daily experiences of the children in our care. To participate, families simply need to enrol their child at a Little Scholars campus that offers the program.

We encourage prospective families to visit our campuses to see the program in action. A tour allows you to observe the interactions between children and educators, as well as any ongoing community engagements. You can book a free tour at any of our 18 campuses to experience the Little Scholars difference firsthand. Our team is happy to answer any questions about the program and how it fits into your child's learning journey.

Key Takeaways

• Little Scholars offers the Intergenerational Grandfriends program across 18 campuses in SEQ.
• Gold Coast locations include Ashmore, Burleigh, Nerang, Ormeau, and Yatala.
• Brisbane and Ipswich locations include Deception Bay, George Street, Karalee, and Augustine Heights.
• The program fosters social skills, empathy, and respect in children.
• Seniors benefit from a sense of purpose and community connection.
• Enrolment is part of the standard early learning services, with no separate application required.
• Families can book a tour to see the program in action at their local campus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which campuses offer the Intergenerational Grandfriends program?

All 18 Little Scholars campuses across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay offer the Intergenerational Grandfriends program. This includes locations such as Ashmore, Burleigh, Nerang, Ormeau, Yatala, Deception Bay, George Street, Karalee, and Augustine Heights.

Do I need to apply separately for the Grandfriends program?

No, the Intergenerational Grandfriends program is integrated into the standard early learning services. You do not need to apply separately; it is part of the daily experiences for children enrolled at Little Scholars.

What age groups participate in the program?

The program is available for all age groups, from nursery (6 weeks) to kindergarten (4 years). Each campus tailors the activities to suit the developmental stage and interests of the children.

How often do the Grandfriends visit the campuses?

The frequency of visits varies by campus and the availability of community participants. Some campuses have regular weekly visits, while others may have less frequent but more in-depth engagements. The goal is to build consistent relationships over time.

Can I visit a campus to see the program in action?

Yes, we encourage families to book a tour at their local Little Scholars campus. During the tour, you can observe the learning environment and ask questions about how the Intergenerational Grandfriends program is implemented.

Is the program available in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast?

Yes, the program is available at all our locations in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as in Ipswich and Redland Bay. This ensures that families across South East Queensland can access these intergenerational learning experiences.

Conclusion

Little Scholars School of Early Learning is committed to providing holistic education that extends beyond the classroom. Our Intergenerational Grandfriends program is a testament to this commitment, fostering meaningful connections between children and community elders. With 18 campuses across South East Queensland, we make these experiences accessible to families in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay. To learn more about how we can support your child's development, or book a tour today.