Bringing Songs & Smiles to Jenni’s House: A joyful summer taster in Haslingden
This summer, we brought a special Songs & Smiles taster session to Jenni’s House in Haslingden, and what a joyful morning it was! Families, older residents and local neighbours joined us to sing, play and connect in a space that already radiates warmth and community spirit.
Why Jenni’s House?
The idea came from Jenni, who runs this beautiful, family-focused space in the heart of Rossendale. After seeing the joy that intergenerational moments bring, and remembering how much her own grandmother would have loved something like Songs & Smiles – she reached out to bring the magic to her local community.
Jenni’s House is already a welcoming haven for parents, carers and little ones, making it the perfect setting to host a session where generations could come together through song, laughter and play.
Who joined in?
We welcomed parents, carers, childminders, grandparents and children aged 0–4, plus a few older siblings who were off school for the summer holidays. Residents from Haslingden Hall Care Home were our special guests, delighted to be out and about and to spend time with families from the local area.
Kathleen, a resident from Haslingden Hall Care Home, meeting the parents and babies
What happened on the day?
Our brilliant group leader Emmy led the session, supported by Janine, filling the room with familiar tunes, giggles and moments of connection. After the session, Jenni and her team put on a special lunch menu for the visiting residents, while families stayed to chat and enjoy the café’s welcoming atmosphere.
The result? A room full of smiles, waves, conversations and shared joy between generations.
A special Songs & Smiles session at Jenni’s House
The power of connection
One of the most magical parts of the morning was watching toddlers and residents interact, waving scarves together, clapping along to the beat and sharing moments of connection. It was a powerful reminder of how music can bridge generations and how much joy we create when we simply spend time together.
Everyone benefits from intergenerational activities
What’s next?
We’re so grateful to Jenni and her wonderful team for welcoming us so warmly. We’re already planning more Songs & Smiles sessions at Jenni’s House (likely during the February half term) and can’t wait to return to this special place where community and connection come naturally.
Lift your spirits and brighten your week
If you’d like to experience the joy of Songs & Smiles for yourself, come along to our weekly Haslingden sessions! We meet every Tuesday from 11am–12pm, where children aged 0–4, their grown-ups and older residents share songs, smiles and form heartwarming friendships.