Niño Early Learning Adventures and Arcare Aged Care Parkview Malvern East are delighted to have joined in a heart warming intergenerational event that took place at Niño Early Learning Adventures (Niño ELA) Chadstone on 19 July 2023. A group of aged care residents from Arcare Aged Care joined the children at Niño ELA Chadstone for a Welcome to Country and special Smoking Ceremony, fostering connections and promoting mutual understanding between the generations.

The smoking ceremony, led by Indigenous Elder Colin Hunt, held significant cultural significance for both the Indigenous community and the broader community. The event provided an opportunity for the aged care residents to share their knowledge, traditions and cultural heritage with the children, creating a meaningful learning experience.

By coming together in respect of celebrating NAIDOC Week, from 2-9 July 2023, the aged care residents and the children at Niño ELA Chadstone engaged in a culturally rich exchange, promoting respect, empathy and understanding across generations. The event aimed to nurture a sense of community and foster intergenerational connections, bringing immense joy and learning to everyone involved.

In a statement, Niño ELA Chadstone’s Centre Director expressed the significance of the event. “We are thrilled to have hosted this Welcome to Country and special Smoking Ceremony and facilitated an intergenerational exchange between our aged care residents and the children at Niño ELA Chadstone. It was a unique opportunity for both generations to connect, learn, and appreciate the richness of our diverse cultures. We believe that such events are essential in promoting respect, empathy, and a strong sense of community within our centre.”

Shannen Stubbs, the manager at Arcare Aged Care Parkview Malvern East also shared their enthusiasm about the event. “Participating in this intergenerational event was truly inspiring for our aged care residents. The opportunity to share their cultural traditions and wisdom with the younger generation brought immense joy and fulfilment. We are grateful to Niño Early Learning Adventures Chadstone for creating a space where such meaningful interactions can take place.”

The Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at Niño ELA Chadstone exemplifies the importance of both our country’s vast history and of intergenerational connections highlighting the value of inclusive and diverse experiences in early childhood education. Such events not only enrich the lives of the participants but also contribute to the overall wellbeing and social fabric of the community.