Tiny hands and great wisdom are coming together as part of new program created by City of Newcastle to encourage shared moments of connection between different generations.
Little and Wise pairs pint-sized storytellers from Merindah Children’s Centre with residents from Uniting Koombahla aged care facility for shared adventures in creativity, play and learning.
From L-R: Aged care resident Mary Michel and Merindah preschooler Laine join Newcastle Libraries Head of Service Delivery Mala Scorse for the final Little and Wise session at Wallsend Library.The four-week program, being delivered at Wallsend Library, is designed to strengthen social connections across generations through guided sessions and hands-on activities including storytelling, art, music, gardening, movement and technology-based activities.
Newcastle Libraries Director Julie Baird said Little and Wise reflects the evolving role of libraries as inclusive community spaces.
“Libraries play an increasingly important role as welcoming places where people can come together, access support and build relationships,” Ms Baird said.
“It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact, helping children build confidence and communication skills, while supporting older residents to stay socially connected and engaged in their community.
“The program is designed to bring generations together so they can learn from their shared experiences. These interactions build empathy, mutual respect and emotional connections that might not otherwise happen in our busy lives.”
Each session begins with group story time led by library staff using large-format picture books, before participants move into one-on-one reading and hands-on activities designed to encourage interaction, communication and creativity.
The inaugural program wraps up at Wallsend Library this week before moving on to Newcastle City Library for the next four weeks with participants from Maroba Aged Care and Cooks Hill Preschool.
Preschool Educator Bella Goldfinch from Merindah Children’s Centre said the program provided children with the opportunity to experience play and learning in a different setting while building confidence and social skills.
“The program was very engaging, and the joy shown by both groups was truly a special, memorable experience. We have had a lot of positive feedback from the children and families as they have shared stories of the program at home,” Miss Goldfinch said.
Uniting Koombahla Leisure and Wellness Coordinator Irene Ross said the program created valuable opportunities for residents to stay socially active and engaged.
“Seeing two different generations connect is truly wonderful,” Mrs Ross said.
“The little ones are learning how to engage with their wise friends, and wise friends enjoy watching their little friends mind explore the world. Our wise friends have so much fun taking part in activities with the little friends.”
Councillor Deahnna Richardson said programs like Little and Wise demonstrate City of Newcastle’s commitment to building inclusive communities.
“Supporting programs that bring our youngest and oldest residents together strengthens the social fabric of our city and ensures everyone has opportunities to participate in community life,” Cr Richardson said.
“The initiative reflects the evolving role of libraries as community hubs. Libraries are more than places to borrow books, they are welcoming spaces that support learning, connection and wellbeing.
“Little and Wise is a great example of how City of Newcastle is working with community partners to deliver programs that benefit both young children and older residents.”
Little and Wise is supported through the Australian Library and Information Association’s Community Cohesion Program, which delivers more than 750 learning programs across public and university libraries nationally.
Following the completion of the first two rounds of the program, it will be evaluated to inform future delivery. Sessions are currently limited to children from selected children’s centres and childcare facilities.