Intergenerational Care

A wonderful concept is beginning to evolve within the Australian aged care landscape. We are starting to see some programs that join our elders with our youth…. to the great benefit of both. The Herd, who believe that children flourish when they feel a strong sense of connection to self, others and nature, is one such program. 

The Herd childcare centre in Mornington, Victoria joins these two generations to facilitate children’s innate exploratory drive with an understanding that the more curious they are, the more they will learn. They provide children with enriching experiences and an intriguing environment, supporting them to be lifelong learners. They value the provision of opportunities for children to learn to participate fully and actively in society with young and older.

They represent a foundational belief that all children have the right to an inclusive environment in which they can participate and succeed, regardless of diverse circumstances, age and abilities. They reinforce collaborative relationships with all generations with families as fundamental to achieving quality outcomes for children.

The journey of The Herd began almost 4 years ago when we watched a moving documentary on an intergenerational care centre in Seattle. At this achingly beautiful centre, an aged care home shares the same roof as a childcare centre. It made them laugh and cry as they watched the loving and life-giving interactions between the little ones and older residents. They were so moved by the documentary that the very next day, they began a journey to bring this model of intergenerational care to Australia.



Find out more about the passion of these two sisters and their vision at https://www.theherdilc.com.au/