Students and Seniors Forge Unlikely Friendships in Cowichan Valley

What started as a simple holiday card-writing assignment has blossomed into one of the most heartwarming initiatives in the Cowichan Valley. For over a year now, Grade 6 and 7 students from Maple Bay Elementary have been making monthly visits to seniors at Deertrail Cottage in Crofton, proving that meaningful friendships know no age boundaries.

A Program Born from the Heart

The intergenerational friendship program began as a classroom project to teach students about community service and empathy. However, what emerged was something far more profound than anyone anticipated.

"We initially planned it as a one-time visit," explains Grade 6 teacher Ms. Jennifer Lawson. "But when we saw the immediate connection between the children and residents, we knew we had to continue. The joy on both sides was absolutely undeniable."

Bridging the Generation Gap

Each month, 24 students aged 11-13 make the short journey from their Duncan-area school to the cozy care facility in Crofton. What happens during these visits is nothing short of magical.

Monthly Visit Activities

The students and seniors engage in various activities designed to foster connection:

• Story Sharing: Residents share tales from their youth while students talk about their hobbies and dreams
• Art Projects: Collaborative crafts that result in beautiful keepsakes for both participants
• Reading Together: Students read aloud while seniors offer life wisdom and encouragement
• Technology Exchange: Young people help with tablets and phones while learning about "the old days"
• Music Sessions: Singing classic songs together and sharing different musical preferences

Unexpected Bonds

Perhaps the most remarkable friendship that has emerged is between 102-year-old resident Margaret Thompson and 12-year-old Emma Chen. Despite their 90-year age difference, the two have formed an extraordinary bond.

"Emma reminds me so much of myself at that age," says Margaret, her eyes twinkling. "She's curious about everything and asks the most wonderful questions about what life was like when I was young."

Emma visits Margaret even outside the scheduled program visits. "She tells me about the war and what school was like with just one room for all the grades. It's like having a real-life history book, but better because she makes me laugh," Emma explains.

The Ripple Effect

The program's impact extends far beyond the scheduled visits. Teachers report significant improvements in their students' empathy, communication skills, and understanding of aging and life experiences.

Benefits for Students

• Enhanced empathy and social skills
• Improved confidence in intergenerational communication
• Greater appreciation for history and different life perspectives
• Increased sense of community responsibility

Benefits for Seniors

• Reduced feelings of isolation and loneliness
• Mental stimulation through engaging conversations
• Increased energy and excitement about weekly activities
• Sense of purpose in mentoring younger generations

"Some of our residents look forward to these visits more than anything else," notes Deertrail Cottage Activities Coordinator Lisa Wong. "You can see them preparing days in advance, choosing their best outfits and thinking of stories to share."

A Model for Other Communities

The success of the Maple Bay Elementary-Deertrail Cottage program has caught the attention of educators and senior care facilities across Vancouver Island. Several other schools are now planning similar initiatives.

Program Elements That Make It Work

Consistency: Regular monthly visits allow relationships to develop naturally

Flexibility: Activities are adapted based on residents' abilities and interests

Support: Both teachers and care facility staff actively facilitate interactions

Documentation: Students create memory books and photo albums to preserve special moments

Lessons in Life

The program offers profound lessons for both age groups. Students learn about resilience, the value of lived experience, and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones. Seniors gain renewed energy from youthful enthusiasm and feel valued for their wisdom and stories.

"These kids have taught me about new technology, but more importantly, they've reminded me that every day is a gift," shares 89-year-old resident Robert MacLeod. "When young Jacob showed me how to video call my granddaughter in Toronto, I felt like I was 30 years old again."

Looking Forward

As the program enters its second year, plans are underway to expand the initiative. The school is considering involving Grade 5 students and extending visits to include outdoor activities when weather permits.

"We're exploring the possibility of creating a community garden together this spring," reveals Principal David Harrison. "Imagine the stories that could be shared while planting and tending vegetables together."

A Community Treasure

The Maple Bay Elementary-Deertrail Cottage friendship program represents the best of what community can be. In a world often divided by generational differences, this initiative proves that meaningful connections can flourish when we create opportunities for genuine human interaction.

The program serves as a reminder that wisdom flows in both directions across generations, and that the simple act of spending time together can create profound and lasting impact.

How to Get Involved

Inspired by this heartwarming initiative? Here's how you can support or replicate this program:

For Schools

• Contact your local senior care facilities to discuss partnership opportunities
• Start with simple activities like letter writing or holiday visits
• Ensure adequate supervision and support for meaningful interactions
• Document the journey to share successes and challenges with other educators

For Senior Care Facilities

• Reach out to local elementary schools to propose intergenerational programs
• Prepare residents by discussing the benefits and addressing any concerns
• Create comfortable spaces for interactions and activities
• Celebrate the connections through photos and stories

For Community Members

• Volunteer to help coordinate visits or transportation
• Donate art supplies, games, or other activity materials
• Share your own intergenerational friendship stories to inspire others
• Advocate for similar programs in your community

Contact Information

To learn more about the program or explore partnership opportunities:

• Email: principal@maplebayelementary.ca
• Phone: (250) 746-0858
• Address: Maple Bay Elementary School, 1343 Maple Bay Road, Duncan, BC

The friendship program continues to grow and inspire, proving that when we bring generations together with intention and care, beautiful relationships bloom – and entire communities benefit from the joy and wisdom that emerges.