During lockdown, the children have been connecting with residents at the Abbeyfield Residential Home in Heron Drive, Taunton.
The virtual story times have been arranged by a member of staff at Taunton School who is also the Weekend Activity Leader at the home, which cares for residents living with dementia.
Once a fortnight, a resident will be reading a different book to the children. So far they have enjoyed ‘The Snail and the Whale’ by Julia Donaldson and ‘The Wonky Donkey’ by Craig Smith. In the coming weeks they will be reading more of the children’s favourite tales together.
Louise Leah, Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep at Taunton School, says, “In a time when we are all feeling a little isolated from one another, we are so pleased to be able to connect with the residents at the Abbeyfield home in this way. Our children have been hugely enjoying their virtual story times and we hope the same benefit is felt by the residents reading the stories.”
Paula Howlett, Manager of the Abbeyfield Taunton Home, says: “It has been absolutely wonderful seeing the connection of the older with the younger generation using the wonders of technology. Residents involved have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the children responding to the books being read by them. There have been some beautiful moments and despite lockdown, new friendships and relationships are being made. We are looking forward to the continued connection with the children at Taunton School!”