Photo caption: Knitting companions Eloise and Denise

Tight-knit generational bonds

During the last school holidays, Newstead Grand Care Community was alive with laughter, stories, and the rhythmic click of knitting needles.

Local charity commonkind and their child and family changemakers joined some keen resident knitters for a special intergenerational ‘knitworking’ session in October.

Seven local children brought plenty of curiosity and enthusiasm, while the residents shared their skills, tips, and life stories.

Together, they created colourful knitted squares that will be added to commonkind’s All You Needle is Love community knitting project to make baby blankets for newborns.

The event was about much more than knitting. It sparked conversation, built connections, and gave children the chance to learn patience, persistence, and creativity from those with years of experience.

Residents enjoyed the companionship and the chance to pass on a skill to the next generation.

When asked if they’d like another knitworking session the answer was a resounding yes.

One of the residents said: “It has been such a lovely afternoon, the children could come in every day as far as I’m concerned.”

The children said they are excited to continue to improve their knitting skills and, as agreed with the residents, to teach some of them hip-hop dancing!

As part of Newstead Grand Care Community’s commitment to building stronger local connections, commonkind runs a regular Heart to Heart Intergenerational Learning Program that brings young changemakers and older community members together.

Learn more at commonkind.org.