The Perry Lutheran Home is partnering with Acorns and Oaks Christian Daycare to create a unique, yet perfect, match. Intergenerational programs offer younger and older generations the opportunity to interact, engage and form connections that benefit both the individuals and the community.
“This life-enriching mission will provide countless benefits to both residents at the Perry Lutheran Home and children at Acorns and Oaks,” said Deb Koelln, chief care officer at the Perry Lutheran Home. “The Perry Lutheran Home is one of the very few in Iowa, if not the nation, to offer intergenerational, Christian daycare in a long-term care setting. When you think about ways to enrich the lives of those around us, you immediately think about how relationships and connections are so very important to happiness, health and well-being. Acorns and Oaks will provide so much to both the children and our residents.”
Intergenerational programs have been found to provide benefits when strategically planned and implemented. Older adults can experience enhanced socialization, stimulated learning, increased emotional support and improved health.
Children who are a part of these kinds of programs can see improved academic performance, enhanced social skills, decreased negative behavior and increased stability.
“Acorns and Oaks has even more to offer families beyond the incredible benefits of intergenerational connection,” said Daycare Director Tammy Kratz. “Our goal is to deliver well-rounded education to infants and toddlers and to shape lives by way of Christian values, creativity and innovation. Both evidence-based and creative-based curriculum will be utilized, specifically Zoo Phonics and the Gold Assessment to measure progress. Children will be nurtured in a safe, Christian environment while learning about Christ’s love for them.”
Kratz, a native of Jewel, has more than 17 years’ experience leading child care programs in Iowa, and she holds certificates or has training in first aid/CPR, mandatory reporting, universal precautions, DHS childcare pre-service and medication administration.
Kratz said she is very passionate about children and the Acorns and Oaks intergenerational childcare mission. She and her husband are in the process of relocating to Perry.
Acorns and Oaks is currently accepting applications for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. The tentative opening date is Monday, July 10, and hours will be Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Acorns and Oaks is also looking for passionate and qualified individuals to fill the roles of lead teacher and teacher assistant. To apply for childcare or open positions or to schedule a tour, contact Kratz at tammy@acornsoaks.com or 515-465-5342 x22.
The public is invited to come in for tours of the new space Saturday, June 17 in conjunction with our Spring Brunch Fundraiser at the Perry Lutheran Home Main Campus at 2323 Willis Ave.
Free-will donation funds will be used to purchase playground equipment, outdoor toys and make further modifications to the outdoor playground. This come-and-go event is from 9 a.m. to noon and will consist of food, fun and safety. Families are encouraged to come because a Child Safety ID Station will be set up and provided free of charge to parents.
