Kinder Village brings children and elders together to provide unique benefits unavailable at traditional daycare centers
We are proud to announce the opening of Kinder Village, a new inter-generational child care center at the Midway campus in Saint Paul, MN. Kinder Village brings elderly and growing young children together to enhance the positive contributions of both age groups.
“Children offer a zest for life that can be refreshing and touching to an elderly person; while a child can learn much from the shared life experiences of a senior,” says Mike Karel, COO of Episcopal Homes of Minnesota. “Bridging the gap between the generations offers a sense of community where relationships are built, and emotional needs are met.”
Overlooking neighboring Iris Park, Kinder Village features a secure outdoor playground, movie theater, pool and large indoor play area. The center was designed to accommodate just 23 children to ensure more individualized attention and care, with a 1:3 child to caretaker ratio for infants/toddlers, 1:6 child to caretaker ratio for the young pre-school age group, and 1:7 child to caretaker ratio for the kindergarten prep group.
A study conducted by Generations United found children who are involved in inter-generational programming had improved academic performance, a more positive attitude to aging, and were more socially and personally mature than their peers. Kinder Village will provide children with opportunities to develop vocabulary, memory and language skills through music, art and sensory exploration. The center is set up so children can explore and allow inter generational interactions with active seniors living on campus.
“At Episcopal Homes of Minnesota, we have a mission to encourage inter-generational relationships on our campus,” says Marvin Plakut, CEO of Episcopal Homes of Minnesota. “Our hope is for seniors to enjoy being volunteer grandparents and to create a wonderful inter-generational experience for children and older adults.”
The teachers at Kinder Village are versed in providing an environment that will further the children’s knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Kinder Village can accommodate children 6 weeks to 5 years of age.
To enroll your child or to learn more about Kinder Village visit www.kindervillage.org.