Toddlers, parents and caregivers enjoyed the energetic morning of song, dance and stories put on by volunteers Nancy Robinson and Lee Wakelin
Toddlers, parents and caregivers returned to the Fireside Lounge at Centennial Place on October 17th for the opening of the 3rd year of this popular intergenerational outreach program operated by the Old Millbrook School Family Centre. The program is delivered by enthusiastic volunteers: retired school teacher Nancy Robinson and Lee Wakelin. These ladies come prepared with an active and varied schedule of songs, stories and dance moves actions to keep their energetic audience engaged. This is not a coffee hour for the adults: parents and caregivers are expected to join in with the activities, providing motivational role models for the children.
As many of the visitors last week were new to the program, the event began with some ice breakers to get the party started. It was organized chaos, with a mix of cooperation and rebellion in the room, with varying degrees of enthusiasm. Soon the inhibitions disappeared and the children’s’ personalities began to emerge. In the crowd of 15 participants there were limelight seekers, escape artists, nurturers, dancers, free spirits and strict conformists, all moving and grooving to songs and reinforcing the beat with a variety of simple percussion instruments provided by the organizers. Songs and activities often included an educational component, and co-operating with other participants was always a prime objective of the program.
As the hour progressed, attention spans waned and nap times approached, so at the final quiet story time activity only six children remained. No worries, as the participants become more comfortable and familiar with the program, their stamina will increase. Let’s hope the same holds true for their caregivers! The Fall Session of the program continues on Monday November 14th and 28th and December 12th. KG
