In March, Port Discovery expanded its At Play community partnerships to include a program cohort of grandparents, conducted in partnership with the Baltimore County Jewish Community Center (JCC). Port Discovery’s Grandparents at Play is designed to be an interactive, experiential and playful learning journey for grandparents and their beloved grandkids.
Each session was designed to be a fully engaging experience that supports positive caregiving practices, and an opportunity for grandparents to connect with other grandparents and their own grandchildren. This program model builds on other multi-generational programs Port Discovery runs through with additional community partners, including Parents At Play and Fathers At Play.
For four weeks, a cohort of about 17 grandparents met together for an hour-long session. Sessions one through three took place on site at the JCC, while the fourth session brought grandparents and their grandchildren to Port Discovery for a play session to apply what they’ve discovered throughout the program. Each session includes a key theme that is explored through hands-on activities.
Sessions one through three highlighted the art of observing and noticing, identifying and understanding emotions, and promoting independence for kids by preparing food together. Port Discovery encouraged grandparents and grandkids to practice these skills at home with session-themed play packs that include books and toys. Port Discovery believes that creating a lively and inviting atmosphere where playing and learning is key to fostering positive and memorable experiences. With that being the goal, Port Discovery provided all Grandparents at Play participants with a free one-year membership to Port Discovery upon completing the full set of sessions.
As programs like Grandparents at Play continue to grow, feedback is always welcomed from participants to make sure needs are being met and the overall goal of inclusion and caregiver empowerment is reached.
“I truly had a blast with Molly and my daughter-in-law at the museum. Also, the emotions mirror Molly loves, and of course the crayon/paints.” -Grandparent participant
While another grandmother made sure to share, “Thank you for all you do. Thank you for a wonderful and meaningful workshop! Sylvie and I had a great time and met new friends!”
More opportunities to participate in future At Play programs are on the horizon so stay tuned!