Friendships Bloom in Sherwood as Care Home Launches Intergenerational Playgroup

New friendships are blossoming at Sandwood care home in Sherwood, where babies, toddlers and older residents are coming together each week for a heart-warming intergenerational playgroup.

Launched in February, Sandwood Seedlings welcomes young families into the home’s bright, open-plan lounge and dining space for songs, arts and crafts, themed activities and plenty of playtime alongside Sandwood’s residents.

For a small £1 donation, parents can enjoy a relaxed and welcoming session where their children share stories, toys and laughter with their older friends.

Cerron, who attends with her young child, said: “We love coming to playgroup – it’s the highlight of our week.”

Another parent, Ingrid, added: “It’s lovely to mix with other parents and for the children to spend time with the residents.”

Sandwood’s residents eagerly look forward to Thursdays just as much.
“I think we’re lucky to have it,” said resident Connie.

Each week at Sandwood Seedlings features a different theme – from dinosaurs to under-the-sea adventures, Chinese New Year celebrations and a World Book Day Mad Hatter’s tea party – with related toys and storybooks laid out to encourage shared engagement and memory-making.

The playgroup was created by Sandwood’s activities coordinator, Mel Spouge, who joined the home’s staff team in September 2025 and has already introduced a packed programme of entertainment, outings, and collaborations with the local community.

“Creating an intergenerational playgroup was really a no-brainer,” Mel said. “My predecessor had run a stay and play session for children in the past, so I knew there would be interest in the local area.

“Our residents always enjoy visits from local schools and nurseries, so this playgroup gives them the chance to interact with young people more often.

“For those residents without regular visits from their grandchildren, and for children who don’t see their grandparents much, it also provides a family-style experience that we know can provide comfort and emotional support both in young and old age.

Mel continued, “We’ve done a little publicity, but word of mouth has been the best promotion. Parents can see how much their children enjoy it – and some have brought friends along the following week.”