Children perform Nativity for care home residents

PUPILS from a kindergarten performed a nativity for residents at a nursing home in Sonning Common.

Kingfisher Kindergarten performed “Our First Nativity” by Stuart Ross for residents of Abbeycrest Nursing Home on Thursday last week.

About 16 children aged between two and four performed as Mary and Joseph, the Three Kings, shepherds, camels, a donkey, angels and stars.

La-Ryne van der Westhuizen, who owns the kindergarten, said the performance brings together the generations.

She said that for elderly residents, the time spent with the children can reduce loneliness, lift mood and improve cognitive functioning.

Ms van der Westhuizen said: “For our children, it helps to build their confidence and communication skills and also supports their personal, social and emotional development.

“It also helps them develop empathy and gives them a sense of belonging to a wider community while they start to understand diversity, respect and different life stages.”

“We are grateful for Abbeycrest’s hospitality and would like to thank the staff for welcoming us again. We wish all the staff and residents a wonderful Christmas.”

Ms van der Westhuizen said some residents had commented on how “lovely” and “special” the visit was, and remarked on the good behaviour of the young performers. She said: “They all did an amazing job singing along to the music and reciting the actions.

“I’m very proud of all the children and would like to thank my dedicated staff team, specifically our manager Kirsty Johnson, for their ability to pull this off every year.”

Tamena Seymour, of Abbeycrest, said: “The singing and enthusiasm of the children filled our residents’ hearts with joy, and many said it was truly wonderful to share such a special moment together.”