The friendships that have been formed between our Compton Gardens Retirement Community and the local mums and bubs – some little ones as young as seven months old – has ignited a sense of belonging in everyone involved.
“Connection is vital for all of us, whether you’re a new mum looking to get out of the house and make friends with like-minded residents, or a retiree who doesn’t have family nearby or simply wants to offer young parents a break from their often-lonely routine, we provide that,” said TriCare Lifestyle Coordinator Leonie Coad.
A former early childhood teacher, Leonie was inspired to start a playgroup by the heart-warming TV show that took the world by storm, Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds which followed retirement home residents and pre-school aged kids that came to visit.
“Just because we’re getting older that doesn’t mean we can’t get our hands dirty with Play Doh, sing songs, and enjoy an imaginary tea party,” said Martha Vettler, who has been a resident at the Aspley village for the past eight months.
“It’s lovely, you see each of the children develop every time they visit.”
Jenelle Dawes, another Compton Gardens resident, says she looks forward to the visits, they are a lot of fun, especially the singing at the end.
“I miss my kids, I have four of my own and two grandchildren, so this is really nice,” she said. “They’re all very curious and investigative, it’s fun.”
For Sarah Longton, who has been bringing her seven-month-old daughter Alex to the group for the past couple of months, it’s helped her keep Alex and herself occupied.
“My husband’s been away for work, so we’ve been trying to find things to fill up our days while he’s away,” said Sarah.
“She’s literally the best baby ever, I can take her anywhere and she just goes with the flow and she’s happy to be held by any of the residents without fuss.”
Leonie said you can’t put a price on human connection.
“There is nothing better than seeing the residents feeling valued, needed and loved,” she added.
The Compton Gardens Playgroup sessions are held morning (9:30-11am) and afternoon (1-2:30pm) every second Friday and can cater for up to 10 mums/kids at a time.
To join or for more information about the playgroup, please email comptongardens.lifestyle@gmail.com, or to arrange a tour of the village, click on the link below.
