Intergenerational Music Session

Bringing generations together in Hastings during a joy-filled intergenerational music session at Mountside Care Home

There are some days at Mountside Care Home that simply feel magical, filled with warmth, connection, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the moment has passed. Our recent intergenerational music session, led once again by the wonderful Crystal and joined by a group of local mums and their babies, was exactly that kind of day. The home was alive with smiles, gentle chatter, music, and the unmistakable energy that only children can bring.

As soon as the first mum and toddler walked through the doors the atmosphere lifted with everyone looking forward to the session ahead. Residents sat eagerly, waiting to see familiar little faces and meet new ones. Music from Crystal and her guitar floated through the lounge, and within minutes the room was filled with clapping, cooing, nursery rhymes, and lots of happy noise.

There is something incredibly special about having children in the home. Their presence isn’t just lovely it changes the space.

For our residents, seeing children brings an entirely different kind of joy. The curiosity of the youngsters, their interaction with residents, coupled with the mums, created a warmth and for many spark memories, conversation, and affection that was deeply meaningful.

Some residents who may be quieter or less confident in group settings often become more animated when holding a baby’s hand or watching little ones dance along to music. The laughter shared during these sessions feels effortless and natural; a reminder that joy is something we create together, no matter our age.

At Mountside Care Home, being part of the community isn’t something we just talk about, it’s something we live. Opening our doors to local groups, families, and community initiatives helps keep the home a vibrant, welcoming space where people of all ages feel comfortable.

Intergenerational activities like this help break down the invisible walls that sometimes exist around care homes. Instead of being seen as places only for older people, they become places of community connection, belonging, and shared experience. We are proud to be a home where people come together, where community bonds are formed, and where every visit enriches the lives of those who live here.

The return of Crystal’s group is particularly meaningful. Her sessions have become a favourite for both residents and families, building a sense of continuity and friendship with each visit. That familiarity is a source of excitement as everyone looks forward to the group returning.

These sessions don’t just benefit our residents; they are also a much-loved space for local mums. Being a new parent can be both joyful and isolating, and having somewhere warm, welcoming, and supportive to spend time makes a real difference.

At Mountside Care Home, mums can relax, chat with others going through the same stage of life, and enjoy meaningful interactions beyond the typical playgroup environment. There is something grounding and uplifting about spending time with older generations, listening to their stories, receiving their encouragement, and seeing how much children can brighten someones day.

Several mums have told us that coming to Mountside offers something unique:

A calm, friendly environment
Genuine community connection
A chance for their babies to engage with different people
Time to connect with other parents in a relaxed setting

We’re delighted to provide a space where families feel supported and truly part of our Mountside family.

Intergenerational activities benefits everyone. The beauty of days like this is that the benefits flow both ways.

For residents it offers:

Companionship and emotional uplift
Cognitive stimulation through music and social interaction
A comforting connection to earlier stages of life
A sense of purpose, nurturing, and shared joy

For children, it provides:

Early socialisation with a wide range of people
A chance to learn kindness, patience, and confidence
Familiarity with older adults, which nurtures empathy
Warmth and reassurance from gentle, interested faces

And for parents:

Community connection
A break from the daily routine
Support from other adults
A meaningful activity that enriches both their lives and their children’s

Intergenerational engagement is increasingly recognised as a powerful, natural way to build healthier, happier communities. At Mountside, we see the evidence in every smile, every cuddle, every shared tune, and every joyful moment.

This is what community looks like at Mountside Care Home; people of all ages coming together, learning from each other, supporting one another, and creating moments that matter.

We are incredibly grateful to Crystal, the wonderful mums, and their beautiful children for bringing joy, energy, and connection into our home. These sessions remind us why intergenerational activity is so important, it brings out the very best in us all.

We can’t wait to welcome everyone back again soon.