The children of Redwood Acres Public School are used to visiting seniors' homes at Christmas time to bring residents good cheer. But Monday's visit to Elizabeth Centre, a long-term care facility in Val Caron, was a little different.
The school's Grade 5 students went to the home as part of the school's character education program.
"We try to instill in the children the need to give back to the community," said teacher Bonnie Paquette, "and to have empathy for others."
Raegan Winover, 10, and four of her classmates, sat around a table in a sunny activity room with one of the home's oldest residents, Edie Barber, 91. Barber has three sons but they're far away in Toronto. Together the students made windsocks in celebration of St. Patrick's Day.
"I came to keep her company," Raegan said.
Looking on was parent volunteer Tanya McCaffrey.
"I think the schools are aware the children need social awareness," McCaffrey said.
"Dealing with seniors isn't like dealing with another
child."
How is it different?
"I walk at the speed of light," McCaffrey said. "Seniors go a little slower."
