Generations of Tottenham residents come together for World Book Day
Thu 05 March 2020, 20:32|
Tottenham Hotspur
Academy players and local primary school children visited a Tottenham care home this afternoon (Thursday 5 March) to share stories with elderly residents on World Book Day.
The intergenerational event at Protheroe House saw Under-18 scholars Enock Asante and Kacper Kurylowicz read their favourite books to the residents, including classics from Roald Dahl, JK Rowling and more.
The pair were joined at the storytelling session by a group of seven to 11-year-olds from Hyland House School, who brought special World Book Day-themed cards and gifts for the elderly participants.
Residents also got the opportunity to share their favourite stories with the youngsters, and even read some of their own material authored during the care home’s monthly writing club.
Speaking at the event, goalkeeper Kacper said: “It was great to be together, young and old, reading books and sharing stories.
“I learned a lot from the residents – one man had a black belt in judo and another fought in the war. I even met a woman who was 102 years old and she told me about her letter from The Queen. They shared some amazing experiences and today was a pleasure to be part of.”
Alice Williams, Dementia and Activities Co-ordinator at Protheroe House, added: “It’s so lovely to have intergenerational projects where people of all ages can come together and share stories. Enock and Kacper really embraced the activity and the residents will remember it for a long time.”
I learned a lot from the residents. They shared some amazing experiences and today was a pleasure to be part of.
According to Age UK, intergenerational activities can help reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing among older people, while developing empathy, confidence and communication skills in the young.
The Club is marking the 23rd World Book Day in local schools by holding special assemblies, workshops and reading sessions.
Tottenham Hotspur Foundation also delivers a variety of programmes in care homes across the community, including seated exercise classes and Sporting Memories sessions, which use sport to help people recall past memories.
