Oak Park’s unique ‘Kindness Creators’ bridges generations with daycare Inside a retirement home
There is a special place in Oak Park for the young and young at heart. Like peanut butter and jelly, two friends came up with the ultimate combo: a daycare inside a retirement home.
Like peanut butter and jelly, two friends came up with the ultimate combo: a daycare inside a retirement home.
During a typical day at Kindness Creators, the trains are on the right track.
Friends and teachers Lawrence and Jaime Moran founded the intergenerational preschool in 2019.
“They have learned we are all unique in our own ways. We say that we use tools, so I have glasses, that’s my tool. Some friends have walkers, that’s their tool. So we have different things that help us manage our day and to get through life,” said Moran.
“When you’re not feeling good, you see the kids, they bring your spirits up,” said Margaret Schwarz, senior resident.
In addition to a pre-K curriculum, the students participate in special activities with their senior friends.
“I color with them,” said four-year-old Sam Michelin.
Kindness Creators is open to kids ages three to five. It’s open five days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
