Tiny tots, big smiles at Buderim Views

Tiny tots are bringing big smiles to residents at Buderim Views where a local Mums’ group has been making regular visits.

The intergenerational play group is an initiative started by Sara Reyes, who after visiting with her own children for the last 12 months put the call out to the local community to bring together more local Mums and their bubs for regular visits.

Sara says that engagement and exposure to the older generation is why she first started visiting with her children – Mila, three, and Levi, one.

“I was inspired by the series ‘Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds’ – it really got to my heart and I wanted to do something special,” she said.

“I saw how much of an impact it had on the older people’s wellbeing and thought it would be perfect for my daughter, Mila, who has such a big personality.

“I posted on a few Sunshine Coast community Facebook pages and I think I ended up getting over 1000 likes and comments with so much interest.

“For my son Levi, many of the residents have now watched him grow up and Mila has formed a really special bond with a resident who used to be a doctor, so she brings her doctor’s bag along to chat to him.”

Sara’s callout also caught the interest of local musicians and animal therapy dogs who are also now making regular visits.

Buderim Views Care Champion and Assistant in Nursing, Deep Mala says the room lights up when the children and residents come together.

“We always have a busy calendar with activities, but the mums and bubs time is one of the most enjoyable activities for residents.

“They get to sit down with the kids and it sometimes brings back those memories of when their own kids were little, which is really great for their mental health.

“You can tell the kids really enjoy it as well and that’s why we do it once a week, because of the positive feedback we have received so far,” she said.

Resident Jodie Hardcourt says she looks forward to the visits every week.

“I look forward to the little kids coming, they brighten my day,” she says.

“I just love them.”