Bring in a children’s choir to improve the mood of the participants!

Required Supplies

• Connection to a local elementary school or daycare

• Prepackaged snacks for the children: water, juice, cookies

Group Size

Min: 1
Max: 8

Hazards

No potential hazards.

Preparation Steps

• Reach out to local schools or daycares to inquire about bringing children into the facility for a choir performance.

• Explain the benefits of intergenerational programs: including increased mood for participants, decreased stigma towards ‘old people’ and increased awareness and exposure to various settings.

• Set up a date that works (usually an afternoon works best for a 30-45 minute performance).

• Book a space large enough for the choir and participants to sit comfortably.

• Purchase snacks beforehand as a thank you to the children and their teachers for bringing them.

 

Activity Instructions

1. On the day of, set up some chairs for the children and participants to sit on. Leave space for participants who will be in wheelchairs.

2. Introduce the choir and let the singing begin! 

3. After the performance, thank the choir and their teachers for coming in! 

4. Have an opportunity for children and the older adults to mingle and chat.

5. Have a few volunteer participants to hand out snacks and juice/water to children after the performance.

 

 

Activity Instruction Adaptations

• We usually have a holiday themed day where the children come in as a special event. Last year we had a Christmas choir and we had residents wear Christmas lights to spread the cheer.

• Additionally, participants can be broken up into groups and sing in the halls of the various sections of the facility. This would bring cheer to those who are unable to join for the performance.