Common Interests

Seniors and youths have much to offer each other, but the two groups rarely interact in meaningful ways. The relative lack of inhibition in one class of mild to moderately mentally handicapped students allowed them to connect with senior citizens in a local nursing home, improving the students' behaviors outside the classroom, and establishing a unique and positive relationship within the community.

Before going to the nursing home, the students reviewed how to act appropriately in the outside world. They encouraged each other to use appropriate language and touch, follow instructions, and hold conversations.  During their visits, the seniors and youths talked and sang together, played board games and completed puzzles, decorated cookies, and drew pictures.

The nursing home residents appreciated the company, and the students found role models in many of the seniors, who also had special needs.  The students built social skills they could use for the rest of their lives.

Adapted from "Route to Reform: K-8 service-learning Curriculum Ideas," © 1994-95 National Youth Leadership Council.