26 Stories of Family Arts

The Together Project
Songs & Smiles

Best Family Arts Activity Finalist

“To see our residents so engaged and happy to be around the little ones is a privilege to witness. Our residents from our dementia floor get so much happiness from the group.” – Care Home Staff

Songs & Smiles is a weekly intergenerational music group that brings together little ones (0-4 years), their grown-ups, and older people in care homes and assisted living schemes.

Through singing, play, and joyful interaction, participants connect across generations, breaking down social barriers and forming heartwarming bonds. The sessions are led by a trained facilitator and include a range of songs, movement, and sensory play, ensuring accessibility for all ages and abilities.

A young child is interacting with an older lady with dark skin and grey hair.

The Together Project is the national charity tackling loneliness and social isolation by creating joyful intergenerational experiences. Their core mission is to build stronger, happier communities by bringing together different generations through activities like their flagship programme, Songs & Smiles. This initiative connects 0-4-year-olds, their families/carers, and older people in care homes and assisted living schemes through interactive music sessions. Equal parts communal playdate, all-ages singsong and intergenerational friendship group, Songs & Smiles tackles social isolation through human connection.

The Together Project strive to make their programmes inclusive, nurturing wellbeing and building a sense of belonging for everyone involved. Families/carers, older people, and care home staff frequently report how much joy and meaningful engagement these sessions bring to all participants, enriching lives and creating lasting memories.

You can discover all 26 Stories of Family Arts here. If you’d like to discover more fantastic organisations that meet our Family Arts Standards or Age-Friendly Standards explore the Fantastic for Families Directory.

The Together Project is a Fantastic for Families Awards 2024 Finalist in the category: Best Family Arts Activity

Winners will be announced in the Fantastic for Families Awards Online Ceremony on Thursday 28 November, 6.30pm.

Watch The Together Project's video about Songs & Smiles...

A child sits on the floor as an older man help put the child's show on. In the background there are other older people sat in armchairs, and another child.
A young child interacts with an older lady with white hair who looks delighted that the child is there.

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26 Stories of Family Arts
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