It felt like a weekend afternoon at Grandma and Grandpa’s. Hugs were unhurried, children and adults were full of smiles, and the air was rich with simple joy. That spirit was on full display at Yankee Hill Village. Residents recently welcomed children from Primrose School of Lincoln at Wilderness Hills for a special Adopt‑A‑Grandparent visit.
Laughter flowed easily as stories were shared, activities were enjoyed side by side, and new bonds formed. It served as a reminder for everyone that the most memorable connections are often the simplest ones.
During the visit, students and residents – several who are former educators and teachers – gathered for games, crafts, and plenty of conversation. The activities spark easy laughter and curiosity.
“The program was created to help build a sense of community with our students,” said Holly Dodd, Office Manager at Primrose School. “There is research showing that it’s better for the seniors and the younger children when you partner together.”
For Yankee Hill Village residents like Gretchen Terpsma, spending time with preschool‑aged children fills a space she’s missed.
“My favorite part is just working with kids of that age, smaller preschool kids, because I don’t have any more in my family that I can do things with,” she said. “They are all so different, and it’s just fun to watch their responses to things. I enjoy that part.”
She especially appreciates when the kids come back for another visit. “Sometimes the kids will come back, and the same kids will run to my table and say ‘Hi,’ and it’s really fun to know they remember me. We just enjoy each other’s company.”
Resident Lois Finkner feels a similar connection. “I always look forward to the day when the children come. I always enjoy being with them,” she said. “They sure like to tell us what they do and everything. They’re just real empathetic, and I just enjoy them. The things that they say and the questions they ask me.”
She added that the experience brings familiar feelings flooding back: “It also gives us memories of when our grandkids were that age, and our kids.”
For many of the kids, the residents at Yankee Hill Village become a friendly, familiar presence; someone they can greet, talk to, and learn from. “Not all of our students have grandparents, so it’s really good to see them partner together and get excited to come visit,” Holly said.
And while the activities themselves are simple, the impact sticks with both generations. Holly put it into perspective: “We’re in an age where we are always going and always on screens, so it teaches them to slow down, and it gives the seniors more of a chance to liven up sometimes. It adds some excitement to their day.”
The Adopt‑A‑Grandparent program continues to be a meaningful tradition for Yankee Hill Village; one that connects hearts, builds memories, and brings a refreshing energy into the community with every visit.
“Their enthusiasm and happiness kind of does that to us,” Lois said.
