Students in James Arnone’s third-grade class enjoyed a real opportunity to connect with their elders on Thursday, May 26, when they stopped by the Southampton Town Senior Center in Hampton Bays to spend time with dozens of residents.

While visiting, the children and the seniors had a blast as they participated together in a variety of games and activities, including the card game Uno, dice game LRC (Left, Right, Center), checkers, puzzles, making cards for veterans, and even Wii Bowling.

The one hour and fifteen minute visit filled with “Intergenerational Games” was a terrific experience for students and seniors alike, and one that Mr. Arnone said he hopes to repeat.

“It’s wonderful for the students to see what the seniors are doing here. It’s a good chance to interact with each other,” he said. “It would be great as an annual event that bridges the gap between the seniors of the community and the students of Hampton Bays.”

Remarking on the visit, particularly the children and seniors bowling together on the Wii gaming system, Pam Giacoia, Director of Senior Services for Southampton Town, said that keeping seniors engaged is a top priority.

“We don’t let any grass grow under the seniors’ feet,” she laughed.