Bringing Generations Together Through Music: Happy Days Nursery’s Intergenerational Journey
At Happy Days Nursery in Charlton Heights, Bristol, something truly heartwarming is happening, and it all started with music.
After taking part in Boogie Mites’ intergenerational training, the team at Happy Days decided to launch a unique music and movement programme that would connect their children with residents at Olive Tree House and Rose Garden, 2 local care homes who share a site. What began as a training initiative has since blossomed into a joyful, weekly experience that’s having a profound impact on everyone involved.
Laying the Foundations for Connection
Room Leader Jen took the lead in preparing for the sessions, immersing herself in the Boogie Mites training resources. While she was already familiar with running music sessions for children, running them with elderly residents, many of whom have dementia, required a different approach. Jen thoughtfully revised how to engage this new audience and worked closely with Nursery Manager Steph to make sure everything was in place before the launch.
From rehearsing songs with the children to preparing homemade junk percussion instruments and portable speakers, no detail was overlooked. The pair also visited Olive Tree House and Rose Garden in advance to build trust and rapport with the staff and residents, something that’s proven key to the success of the sessions. With Jen’s previous experience working in a care home, she brought both knowledge and confidence to the project, helping to upskill other nursery staff along the way.
Small Groups, Big Impact
Each week, a small group of five children aged three and over visits Olive Tree House and Rose Garden. The children are rotated so that everyone gets a turn every few weeks. After trying bigger groups, it was decided that five children was the best amount, as this ensures that the sessions remain relaxed and enjoyable for residents, many of whom had previously only observed children’s performances rather than actively participating. The new format – more interactive and inclusive – has encouraged residents to sing, move, and most importantly, connect.
As Jackie Cambridge, Happy Days Head of Quality, beautifully put it:
“They have different intents, but they come together as one.”
Songs, Smiles, and Shared Joy
The sessions follow the Boogie Mites Minis programme, combining structured songs with traditional tunes like “Daisy, Daisy” – a firm favourite that rounds off each visit. Children are also encouraged to bring their own song suggestions, keeping the experience child-led and spontaneous, in line with the EYFS ethos.
Jen has seen incredible results in both the children and the residents:
Building Bridges Between Generations
For many of the children, these weekly sessions provide a meaningful bond with older adults. Steph, the Nursery Manager, reflects on just how powerful that has been:
“This project has been nothing but heartwarming. Every time I walk into the Adventurers Room the children ask, ‘Are we going to the Care Home today?’ It has been wonderful watching our children’s confidence grow with each interaction. A lot of our children’s grandparents live abroad so for them having a connection with an older friend has supported with bridging that gap. Our children now often initiate their own Boogie Mites sessions which is a pleasure to see.”
The project’s success is also thanks to Liz, Olive Tree House’s passionate Activity Leader, who’s helped create a welcoming and enthusiastic environment. Her energy and dedication have helped the residents feel truly engaged.
A Community in Harmony
From improved physical movement and coordination to enhanced social interaction and emotional wellbeing, both generations are reaping the benefits. Children now refer to the residents as their “older friends” – a phrase that sums up the spirit of this project perfectly – and the care home manager has noticed the significant impact the sessions are having on the residents:
“Boogie Mites has made a noticeable and uplifting impact on our residents. The sessions bring energy, rhythm, and a sense of community that many residents look forward to. We’ve seen increased engagement from residents who are usually quite reserved, and it’s incredible to watch them light up when the music starts. The program has also helped encourage movement, memory recall, and social interaction in a way that feels natural and joyful. It has truly become a valued part of our activities program, and we’re very grateful for the positive atmosphere it brings.”
What started as a training initiative has grown into something much more: a living, breathing example of community cohesion, compassion, and the power of music to bring people together.
