Recommendations for working with an intergenerational group
based on the project “The Seniors and the Young in Creative Activities”
| Phase | What needs to be considered | What you will achieve |
| Planning | Discuss with other coauthors what their values are, their mission and personal goals they would like to achieve. | – clarify your intentions- show coherence in who you are and what you do
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| Beginning | Use precise and open communication:- make known the idea behind the project and its duration
– provide information about the activities gradually – make sure all potential participants are given time to decide whether they want to take part, let them express their doubts and discuss with the organizers |
– develop trust with the participants- gain confidence that all participation of the young and the seniors is voluntary
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| Working | Before you begin working with the intergenerational group hold separate meetings with the young and the seniors
Make sure there is a level plane of communication inside the group: – use I-statements, acknowledge the effort, do not judge, clarify the intentions behind statements, provide a space for expressing opinions, even if they are negative, let the participants talk about their emotions
Before the workshop write up instructions to the exercises. Make sure to: – provide information in stages – use simple language (without making it sound childish or too formal) – provide examples
Work with fictitious stories that are important to the group, under the veil of their characters
Make room for a sense of humor
Be flexible and adjust your actions to the needs of the group |
– gain insight into how each generation views the other one and how that influences their behavior
– create an openness towards diversity – improve communication skills through practice between generations – appreciate the experience and wisdom of the participants
– make the goals behind each exercise clear – increase motivation to engage – create a sense of security – encourage the participants to try new experiences
– create a sense of security – engage both sides – extend horizons and perspectives
– put things in the right perspective – invite a creative atmosphere
– increase a sense of control and understanding – improve engagement – build up a sense of security |
| Closing | Thank all parties for their work, appreciate their efforts and contributions, ask for feedback | – acknowledge and appreciate individual effort- evaluate your own performance |