The Merrill Family Resource Center has partnered with Pine Crest Nursing Home to bring generations together through the Wiggle, Giggle and Shake program. Each week, families with young children visit the nursing home for activities including music and art with the residents.
“Intergenerational programming brings seniors and children together to form fun and meaningful relationships through music, story time and activities,” explained Theresa Swiechowski, program coordinator for the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Family Resource Center. “Both groups have so much fun learning from each other that the result of this program is always wonderful.
“It is amazing to watch the relationships grow every week between residents and the families. We are watching a stronger sense of community develop right before our eyes.”
Several families have participated in the program, which is a favorite for Pine Crest residents. Some of the families have loved ones at the nursing home, including a four-generation family that gets together during the program.
Most of the children are under six years old, mainly because that is the age group of children the Family Resource Center serves. Older children are also welcome to attend.
Wiggle, Giggle and Shake is offered every Monday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Pine Crest. For more information, call 715-539-9228.