Organizers of an intergenerational initiative are bowled over by the connections created on their first outing.
Students from Ecole RW Bobby Bend School enjoyed a game of bowling at Quarry Lanes last Wednesday along with members of South Interlake 55 Plus.
Grade 4 teachers Jacqui Holod and Susan Hannah planned 18 intergenerational bowling days throughout the year, with collaboration from Quarry Lanes, South Interlake 55 Plus and Interlake School Division.
“Some of the highlights of our first day kick-off include students and adults beginning to forge friendships, students reinforcing their ability to take turns, improve sportsmanship skills and learn about bowling, as well as lots a laughs and cheering. There were even a few strikes, which were celebrated by all,” Holod said.
“We are all very excited about this opportunity, and we are very thankful for Kelsey Pattie at Quarry Lanes, who has been extremely supportive.”
The bowling program supports the school division’s wellness platform, which is based on the social and emotional well-being of students.
“Additionally, our students will have the opportunity to make connections with older adults in our community,” Holod said, “which will strengthen intergenerational ties and foster the well-being of everyone involved in this program.”
To get the ball rolling on the project, Laurie Briggs, vice-president of the South Interlake 55 Plus board, applied for and received a grant through Manitoba Association of Seniors Centres (MASC).
“MASC is always promoting intergenerational programs. Anything where we can put seniors together with young ones is always a good project. It teaches the kids respect. It also gives some of them the chance to have a grandparent that don’t have grandparents, and same with grandparents who don’t have grandkids,” said Briggs, adding that their last big intergenerational program welcomed Grade 2 students to exercise with seniors.
“It’s just a fun thing to do. It always picks up everybody’s spirits. We have a waiting list for grandparents to go bowling with the kids.”
The first bowling event was a great success, she added, and everyone went home happy — and tired.
“The smiles on those kids’ faces were just unbelievable. They had such a wonderful time,” Briggs said.
“And the older adults went home happy too, so it was a win-win for everybody.”
Kelsey Pattie, co-owner of Quarry Lanes, echoed similar sentiments.
“It was so much fun. Everyone was smiling,” she said of last week’s inaugural event.
“We’re super excited to be a part of this for the kids and the seniors. It’s so great.”
Tribune photos by Lana Meier
