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About 
Ridge Child Development Center
(RCDC)

Making a Difference Across Generations

At The Ridge Child Development Center, we have such a unique opportunity to work with today's youth as well as older generations.  Our program has planned & spontaneous activities for children that take place throughout the week on our campus which is also home to older adults. When, the children and residents come together in a variety of planned activities such as music, dancing, art, lunch, storytelling or just visiting the results are a mutual benefit for both generations. This enhances learning opportunities for the children to receive so much more than an ordinary education.


In addition to mastering kindergarten readiness skills the unique inter-generational aspect of our program provides opportunities that promote social-emotional growth, self-regulation and empathy 

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Interested in learning more about the Ridge Child Development Center? We invite you to keep exploring our website, and get in touch with questions about our values, academics, community and more. Join us today!

Reading and learning
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Our Philosophy

The Passion for Life Long Learning & Strengthening Our Local Community

Our unique program offers various activities that are specifically designed to encourage each child’s growth. We have intentionally created an environment where young & old can thrive together! 

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Our goal at Ridge Child Development Center is to prepare children for the next stage of their lives through cooperative play and creative activities, the  children reach their social, emotional and physical milestones naturally and with ease. 



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Intergenerational connections

CHILDREN & YOUTH IN SHARED SITES IMPROVE LEARNING, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SKILLS AND PERCEPTIONS OF OLDER ADULTS 


Elementary school age children who had attended an intergenerational care program one to three years earlier demonstrated greater levels of empathy, social acceptance and ability to self-regulate than peers who had not attended an intergenerational program.

• Preschool children involved in intergenerational programs had higher personal/social developmental scores (by 11 months) than preschool children involved in non-intergenerational programs.

• Children who participated in activities led by adult day services participants improved motor and cognitive skills.

• Children who regularly participate with older adults in a shared site program have enhanced perceptions of older adults, persons with disabilities and nursing homes in general.

• Youth participants in intergenerational programs with people with dementia experienced social and emotional growth, including a deepened understanding of aging, older adults and dementia.

• Children working with adults with dementia developed social and emotional competencies, such as empathy, patience and problem-solving.

• The vast majority of parents believe that the intergenerational program is beneficial for their children.

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Highlight from: A REPORT FROM GENERATIONS UNITED AND THE EISNER FOUNDATION

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