Young Visitors Bring Creativity and Colour to Chartwell House

Residents at Chartwell House Care Home in Broadstairs spent a morning painting pebbles, swapping garden stories and making new friends when six Year 2 children from St Mildred’s Primary Infant School came through their doors.

The visit took place as part of Chartwell House’s ongoing programme of intergenerational events. Children and residents sat together around tables laid with brushes, markers, glitter and smooth grey stones, decorating the pebbles to be placed in the home’s garden. As the morning unfolded, residents shared memories of their own gardens, offered tips on planting, and helped the children with their designs.

The activity formed part of Boutique in Bloom, an initiative by Boutique Care Homes that celebrates gardens and outdoor spaces as places for creativity, connection and community. By welcoming local school children into the home to take part in a gardening-themed activity, Chartwell House put that vision into practice in a simple, personal way.

Miss Jones, Teaching Assistant at St Mildred’s Primary Infant School, said: “Six of our Year 2 children were invited to attend an Activity Day at Chartwell House. They spent time with the residents and painted some beautiful stones. All the children had such a lovely time and talked about it all day.”

Jaye Dry, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House Care Home, said: “Watching residents and children work side by side decorating pebbles was truly heartwarming. These intergenerational activities create wonderful opportunities for learning, laughter and connection, while also bringing our outdoor spaces to life. We’re passionate about creating a garden that not only supports resident wellbeing but also brings the wider community together, and this was a perfect example of that in action.”

Research consistently shows that regular contact between older and younger generations benefits both groups. For residents, time spent with children can spark conversation, encourage reminiscence and bring a sense of purpose. For children, these encounters help build confidence, curiosity and a natural respect for older people.

Chartwell House plans to continue its programme of community visits throughout the year. Schools and community groups interested in getting involved are encouraged to get in touch directly with the home.