Yesley is a perfect example. But he just brought in his chess set and did it. The volunteers help us see outside of the box. And we're so tied into wanting our children to be the best they can be, but the volunteers are beyond that. They can accept the children for who they are, and teach them new things.
Kids sense that.
That's why the relationships work. Indeed, hard data on the subject are not easy to find. Intergenerational curricula, arts, and mentoring are widespread in Miami, and there is the nationally recognized Elder Share the Arts program in Brooklyn, New York. Generations United, a Washington, D.C.-based coalition, serves as a clearinghouse for information on these issues. Several colleges and universities have academic departments focused on intergenerational studies, including Worcester State College's Intergenerational Urban Institute.