At Henrico retirement community, seniors and tots cherish 'Toddler Time'

For residents of Hermitage Deep Run, a senior living community on Ridgefield Parkway, second Wednesdays are a favorite day of the month.  

That's when a swarm of toddlers and their moms pile through the front door and set up toys and games on the library floor – and the room comes alive with the sound of giggles, excited squeals, and babbling babies. 

At the Feb. 11 Toddler Time, the children and their senior buddies made music, showed off dance moves, played bowling games, tossed mini-footballs, raced cars, and exchanged high fives. The tots also presented their "GrandFriends" with homemade Valentines, shared hugs, and occasionally even snuggled up onto a lap or two. 

The second Wednesday tradition got its start last summer with visits from Melody Magic Music Studio, and grew into a regular monthly event after a mother asked if her mom-and-tot group could join the fun. From there, it quickly evolved into a rollicking, highly-anticipated intergenerational party.  

If you ask social psychologists, they might tell you that gatherings like these produce all kinds of social and emotional benefits for both sides – not to mention forging invaluable bonds between the generations.  

But ask one of the seniors, and they'll simply chuckle at the youthful antics and marvel at the kids' energy.   

As for the kids?  

They'll just tell you they're having a blast.