Bubbles, Balloons and Big Smiles: Cranleigh Lodge Nursery Visits Wickmeads
It was a morning filled with laughter, colour and joy at Wickmeads Care Home, as we welcomed the energetic and cheerful children from Cranleigh Lodge Nursery into our much-loved Stour Lounge for a very special Bubble and Balloon Morning with our residents.
The excitement was tangible as the children bounded into the lounge, beaming with anticipation. One eager young lad made a beeline for Pat, smiling brightly as he declared, “We’re doing a Bubble and Balloon Morning with you!”
Bubble Magic and Shared Laughter
Before arriving, the children had been hard at work preparing their own bubble mixture, which they proudly poured into bottles ready for action. Each resident sitting in our welcoming circle was given a bendy pipe cleaner to craft into a bubble dipper, and soon the lounge was filled with shimmering bubbles floating through the air.
With a cheerful competitive twist, residents took turns trying to blow the biggest bubble, as the children clapped, jumped and chased bubbles around the room. The lounge was alive with movement, smiles and the joyful sound of generations connecting.
Balloon Games and Parachute Play
Next came the balloon games, with the children unveiling a bright parachute. Residents and children alike took hold of the handles, working together to launch balloons high into the air. Cheers erupted as each balloon soared. The parachute was passed around, ensuring every resident had a chance to join in – including Betty, aged 107, and Eileen, turning 100 later this year, both smiling and waving as the colourful fabric rippled.
Art, Stories and Flying Birds
Before saying goodbye, the children gathered around Ivan, one of our talented resident artists, who invited them to view his personal gallery displayed in the lounge. Ivan shared stories behind his paintings, including his signature feature – four birds in flight. Intrigued, the children asked how to draw them, and Ivan kindly shared his tips for the perfect flying bird.
Their helper Dawn later shared that the children had an art activity planned for the afternoon, and they were all excited to try the “Ivan Signature four Birds” themselves.
A Fond Farewell (For Now)
As the visit came to an end, the children gathered one last time to sing “Happy Birthday” to Betty, celebrating her extraordinary milestone year. There was a sense of bittersweet farewell, as many of the children were visiting for the final time before heading off to big school in September.
With hugs, waves and heartfelt goodbyes, the children departed, leaving Wickmeads’ Stour Lounge filled with warmth and memories – and a gentle calm after such a joyful morning.
At Care South, we treasure these intergenerational connections. They bring so much life, laughter and learning to our homes, enriching both our residents and the young people who visit.