JourneyOnline
THE Little Marchant’s Child Care Centre has arrived in a very special and unique environment – an aged-care community.
Little Marchant’s was named after the historic Marchant cottages in which it is housed and is a child care service looking after just 20 children per day.
The Centre can be found within Wesley Mission Brisbane’s Wheller Gardens, the first aged-care community in Queensland when it was opened in 1936.
Child Care Manager Dianne Holman said Little Marchant’s was also a groundbreaking concept.
“We are the first child care centre to be located within an aged-care community, so there’s a huge range of potential here,” she said.
“We are in the process of developing a variety of programs that will provide opportunities for [agedcare] residents and children to interact and develop relationships.”
Little Marchant’s Director Danielle Shearer said the presence of children brings joy to the aged-care residents.
“Older people enjoy the merriment and warmth that children can bring into their day- it could be especially beneficial for those who maybe have grandchildren far away or don’t have children in their lives at all.
This affords them the chance to engage with kids via storytelling, music, drama, or just simply playing.
“Things like gardening, creative experiences and music will be some of the things to explore.
It’s very healthy for adults – particularly older adults – to engage with children. It’s a process of teaching and learning that’s beneficial to both parties.”
One child who regularly visits the centre has a grandparent living in the aged-care community on-site.
“It’s a great opportunity for her to spend more time with him than she might normally,” said Ms Shearer.
For more information on Little Marchant’s drop by the centre at 930 Gympie Road, Chermside or phone Danielle on 3621 2098
Photo : Little Marchants will introduce intergenerational programs this year. Photo by Emma Tucker
