Four generations came together through play during Positive Ageing Month, as 81 grandparents, parents and children took part in Generation Celebration events across Causeway Coast and Glens.
The events formed part of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Age Friendly programme, with funding support from the Public Health Agency (PHA). Delivered in partnership with Coleraine SureStart Partnership, Dalriada Rural SureStart and Dry Arch Children’s Centre, the three events brought families together to share activities, explore new play ideas and strengthen relationships across generations.
Feedback was very positive, with respondents noting they enjoyed spending time, playing and learning across generations, and all said they were likely to try the play ideas at home. 96% wanted more opportunities for intergenerational activities.
One grandparent reflected on the value of simple, everyday play:
“This has made me think more about using utensils or items already in the home and how I can interact with my grandson at no expense and interact more.”
Another participant said:
“Great to spend time and chat with other like-minded grandparents.”
Stephanie Scott, Age Friendly Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, said:
“It was particularly special to see four generations represented through these events. Generation Celebration showed how play can bring people of different ages together, strengthen family relationships and create opportunities to learn from one another.
“As part of Positive Ageing Month, it was also an opportunity to recognise the important role grandparents play in family and community life, while supporting their own social connections and wellbeing. It was encouraging to see participants leave with ideas they could use at home, as well as having enjoyed time connecting with other grandparents and families.
“Thank you to the Public Health Agency for its funding contribution, and to Coleraine SureStart Partnership, Dalriada Rural SureStart and Dry Arch Children’s Centre for their partnership in delivering these events. Their support helped create welcoming opportunities for families to spend time together and build connections across generations.”
The events reflect the Age Friendly Causeway commitment to supporting older people to remain connected and involved in community life, while recognising the value of relationships between generations.
Age Friendly Officer Stephanie Scott joined staff from Dry Arch Children’s Centre during the Generation Celebration events, which brought families together to encourage intergenerational play and strengthen connections across Causeway Coast and Glens.
Children, parents and grandparents took part in Generation Celebration events across Causeway Coast and Glens, bringing generations together through shared play and activities as part of Positive Ageing Month.
Children, parents and grandparents took part in Generation Celebration events across Causeway Coast and Glens, bringing generations together through shared play and activities as part of Positive Ageing Month.