Residents at an Isle of Wight residential home were pleased to welcome year three students from Lanesend Primary School, who brought festive activities and joy.

The children, who brought books with them to read, walked straight up to the residents at Old Charlton House in Cowes, and shared stories with them, and with some residents being former teachers, the memories all came flooding back. 

Other residents who live with dementia sat forward and listened to the children and looked at the books with them.

For the second session, the children brought some giant bauble templates, and everyone decorated them with fingerprints.

Isle of Wight County Press: A group of children with the residents, and June with AlysA group of children with the residents, and June with Alys (Image: Old Charlton House)

One of the residents, June, who has very poor vision, was assisted by the girl working with her, Alys, who took particular care to explain what they had to do and assisted them with putting paint on her finger and showing her where to press.

Isla, a student, said: “My favourite thing was creating a Christmas bauble with a lady called Mary. We took it in turns to draw patterns. We had a lot of fun together.”

Another student, Tom, said: "Betty and I did a fingerprint picture together. She told me all about the war and her time at school. It is very different to my time."

Jess McQueen, a teacher at Lanesend, said: “The trip at Old Charlton House has given our children amazing experiences of sharing their love, kindness and thoughtfulness.

“The children thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the residents and learning about their lives.”

Debbie Webb, activities coordinator at Old Charlton House, said: “Working on intergenerational projects is so beneficial for our residents, who love engaging with children.

“The children were beautifully behaved and so polite, a real credit to the school. We are looking forward to continuing our relationship with the school next year.”