STRATEGIES TO EXPAND A PENPAL PROGRAM FROM SIMPLE LETTERS INTO A FULL INTERGENERATIONAL EXPERIENCE

The Senior Pen Pal Program offered in the first grade classroom at Mulready Elementary School in Hudson, MAis an example of a successful intergenerational program. The program has evolved from a letter exchange to include the assignment of books about senior citizens, regular correspondence, and structured group visits between participants. Some of the seniors visit the classroom and lead activities. The senior center is visited by the students and an intergenerational concert is held during the holidays.