Smiles, laughter and accolades are frequently seen and heard at Talahi Care Center and St. Benedict Senior Community when fourth-grade Clearview Elementary School students visit the senior living facilities twice a month to meet and read with residents. The partnership has been ongoing for several years and has become a rite of passage for Clearview students.
Students come prepared with a book they’ve chosen from the library as well as crafts and games for the one hour they’ll spend with the residents.
“There was apprehension on the first day, but now the students look forward to it,” says Terri Weber, fifth-grade Clearview teacher.
Weber explains that the students lead the time with their residents. They read a book to their resident, which allows them to practice their literacy skills, have book discussions and share their imagination. Then they move on to doing crafts with the residents. The crafts often are seasonally related and are given to the residents to keep for decoration in their rooms. Afterward, the pairs play games, whether it is cards, a board game or fun with foam balls.
“They love it,” says Weber.
The residents look forward to the visits just as much as the students.
Retired kindergarten teacher Ethal Sarff is one of those residents.
“I think it is wonderful,” exclaims Sarff. “I think it is good for the kids and for us to be around them.”
Grace Solarz couldn’t agree more. She says, “It’s like letting in some sunshine and fresh air. They’re very intelligent and not afraid of people.”
James Miller, Clearview student, is reading “The Berenstein Bears: Prized Pumpkin” to his resident Lewis. However, his favorite thing to do with Lewis is play cards and craft.
“Everyone’s happy to come here because you get to read to them and do a lot of fun things with them,” explains Miller.
It may be a lot of fun and games, but it’s about making connections and friends as well.
Ailee Bartz, another Clearview student, has discovered that her resident’s mother used to make a lot of things for her when she was a child. She thinks that it is really special that her mom used to do participate in that way.
The students really get to know the residents on a personal level and vice versa.
Time spent with student Santiago Castro is a highlight for Doris Abbott. She knows all about how he wants to be a zookeeper, skydive and break a world record when he grows up.
Castro is currently reading a book about reptiles to Abbott which includes true and false questions.
“He knows everything,” she states proudly. “He knows the questions and answers. He is very intelligent.”
Castro replies,” And, she’s really nice and really likes having kids read to her.”
Whether it’s furthering literacy skills, sharing a giggle or getting their hands dirty making crafts, it is safe to say that these students and residents are making friendships that they’ll remember for a lifetime.