FROM a young age, we're told to respect our elders.
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And, a group of vivacious kids from the Denman Children's Centre are doing just that - and a whole lot more - at Merton Court on a regular basis.
Every Friday, the youngsters walk to the aged care facility to catch up with their "grand-friends", much to the delight of the older citizens.
The idea behind the social calls is based on the highly-successful ABC TV documentary Old People's Home For 4-Year-olds, where pre-schoolers share their classroom with pensioners for an extended period of time.
"It's our own version of the show," Merton Living general manager Shani Mitchell said.
"I watched the program; and thought it would be good to adopt here.
"Afterwards, I spoke to Nicole McKenzie (Denman Children's Centre), who was keen to get on board.
"While we've had kids visit Merton Court before, we've never implemented a recurring visitation arrangement.
"It was supposed to be a fortnightly thing.
"But, the residents loved it so much, it's now occurring weekly."
Ms Mitchell said everyone was inspired by the inter-generational concept.
"It's all about forming bonds and relationships," she explained.
"Each of the children have already claimed their 'buddy'.
"After a chat, they enjoy some morning tea and do projects, or an activity, together.
"We actually trialled it at the end of last year.
"And, the residents responded immediately - they really light up when the kids arrive.
"You can see a sparkle in their eyes.
"The feedback's been great."
Ms McKenzie echoed Ms Mitchell's sentiments, saying it was a win-win situation for all involved.
"The children look forward to spending an hour or two with their 'grand-friends' each week," she admitted.
"As for the residents, they appear to get a buzz out of it, too.
"So, it works both ways."