Residents of RetireAustralia Wisteria Grove Retirement Village in Broadview, South Australia, embraced the spirit of friendship and fun when they were paid a visit by the children of Emali Broadview Early Learning Centre this past week.

Nine pre-schoolers from the centre visited their older neighbours to play games, sing songs, make arts and crafts, and share a love of learning.

Village Manager Debra Grant said residents enjoyed the youthful energy brought to the village. On arrival the children introduced themselves with a song, and the day saw an array of activities including playing with balloons, eventually finishing with a story.

“It was great fun for everyone!” said Ms Grant.

Meghan Holst, Assistant Director of Emali Broadview Early Learning Centre, said the children greatly enjoyed the visit, and were excited to learn about where they live.

“The kids were really excited to meet all the residents and were able to talk to them really confidently,” she said.

While it may have been all fun and games, the gathering of different generations cultivates a sense of purpose and extends positive emotional and mental benefits for both groups, according to an in-depth study undertaken by Stanford University in 2016.

The success of the day has seen Wisteria Grove village staff and residents, and Emali Broadview staff and parents agree to visits on a monthly basis.

“We’ll be bringing different groups of children to visit the residents on an ongoing basis,” Ms Holst said.