Oldies But Goodies

We are still working on some school stuff. We're not working hard mind you, but we're working.

We went by our food garden today to squish some bugs and water things. While there the boys got involved in discussion with a lady working a neighbouring plot. (She had enlisted their aid in spotting the little brown bugs).
She was telling them that because of the strange winter weather apples were going to be more expensive. That she had seen a farmer on the news saying that normally her apple trees would have 100 apples on them this time of year but now they had only 3 small apples.
Eric said, "Wow. That's like, 97% fewer apples."
The lady paused. And said, "Yes. You're right. Exactly 97% fewer apples."
Later as we were saying our goodbyes she told me that speaking with children made her realize how much she was looking forward to grandchildren. She said, that spending time with kids really increased her enjoyment of an activity.

Intergenerational Relationships are so important!!

Benefits of Intergenerational Relationships to Seniors:
• Give seniors a sense of purpose in life
• Invigorate and energize older adults
• Reduce the likelihood of depression
• Strengthen the immune system in general
• Fill a social need for older adults who do not have family or grandchildren around with them
Benefits of Intergenerational Relationships to Children and Youth:
• Help alleviate any fear that children or youth may have of older adults
• Help children to understand and later accept the process of aging
• Fill a void for children who do not have their own grandparents with them
• Learn new skills, knowledge, and wisdom.
• Strengthen emotional and social intelligence

(taken from http://voices.yahoo.com/the-benefits-ways-developing-intergenerational-6030562.html?cat=5)