Kids learn to see seniors in different light

Inter-generational programmes help children develop empathy and respect

A pre-schooler from the Church of the Holy Trinity kindergarten interacting with a senior from Apex Harmony Lodge. PHOTO: CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY KINDERGARTEN
A five-year-old child drew a lone figure (left) when asked what came to mind when thinking about the elderly. After months of interacting with seniors from a nursing home, the same child drew them singing together (below). PHOTOS: MY FIRST SKOOL AND
A five-year-old child drew a lone figure when asked what came to mind when thinking about the elderly. After months of interacting with seniors from a nursing home, the same child drew them singing together (above). PHOTO: MY FIRST SKOOL AND NTUC HEALTH
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A lonely old man, with little hair, doing nothing.

This was the picture drawn by a five-year-old, whose class was asked to draw what came to mind when thinking about the elderly.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 20, 2019, with the headline Kids learn to see seniors in different light. Subscribe