St John Queensland is proud to introduce Shared Smiles, a heart-warming new intergenerational program designed to bring seniors and young children together through meaningful connection, shared experiences and community care.
Now underway in Brisbane, Shared Smiles creates opportunities for older adults to visit local early childhood centres and engage with kindergarten-aged children through a range of gentle, enjoyable activities. From reading stories and creative play to simple conversations and group experiences, the program is carefully designed to foster natural connections in a safe and supportive environment.
At its core, Shared Smiles is about strengthening wellbeing through human connection—helping participants feel seen, valued and part of a wider community.
As St John Queensland CEO Peter Warrener explains, the initiative highlights “the impact simple moments of connection can have on our communities,” bringing generations together in ways that benefit both seniors and children alike.
For older participants, the program offers opportunities to reduce social isolation, build confidence and rediscover a sense of purpose. For children, it encourages the development of empathy, communication skills and respect for older generations.
One parent involved in the program, Nili, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “My son doesn’t have their grandparents nearby, so this is a great opportunity for him to experience working with seniors.” Another parent, Bella, said, “this is a money can’t buy experience for my son and I’m thrilled that its powered by a wonderful organisation like St John.”
While Shared Smiles is still in its early stages, initial visits have already demonstrated the power of these intergenerational connections. Clients have described feeling welcomed and engaged, with many surprised at how quickly relationships began to form.
“I surprised myself actually. I was a bit nervous but the children were great,” said participant Tony after attending a recent session. “I felt really involved, which was nice.”
These early experiences reflect the program’s potential to create genuine, lasting impact—not only through structured activities, but through the simple joy of spending time together.
The pilot will continue over a series of visits, allowing relationships to grow and deepen over time. Feedback from participants, families and educators will play an important role in shaping the future of the program, with hopes to expand Shared Smiles to more communities across Queensland.
Shared Smiles is part of St John Queensland’s ongoing commitment to building inclusive, connected communities and supporting wellbeing at every stage of life.
For more information about the Shared Smiles program, or to discuss opportunities to bring this program to your community, please call 1300 785 646 or email Lisa Bird, Growth and Engagement Manager, at lisa.bird@stjohnqld.com.au.
