Notes the importance of elders in various Native American cultures and of drawing on personal memories of special older folks. Stresses the importance and value of contact between the generations. Urges schools to adopt intergenerational programs, citing the remarkable contributions older people can make to the lives of children. (TJQ)

Accelerating changes in information technology both obstruct the forging of intergenerational communities and offer opportunities to professionals in aging interested in fostering them. Public policy should empower older adults in the same way that schools are being wired. Age and generation cannot be separated from socioeconomic status in…

Programs involving elderly persons in the provision of child care services have evolved as a possible solution to problems identified by working parents and the elderly. Community members must work together on clearly defined objectives if opportunities are to be provided for elderly persons to participate in meaningful intergenerational child…

Maintains that those who design intergenerational programs in school and nonschool settings should (1) protect the prestige of elders and children; (2) limit frustrations by arranging for intimate contacts; (3) plan for functional interaction that has integrity; and (4) ensure that contact is rewarding for elders and children. (BB)

The case for intergenerational programs based on political and moral imperatives is explored. From a political standpoint, organizations for the aging can benefit by demonstrating commitment to child welfare. From a moral standpoint, the organized aging community should provide leadership and support for general social betterment, advocating…

The intergenerational movement is seen as an appropriate counter to the breakdown of the extended family and the loss of shared responsibilities and functions. If grandparenthood is understood as a promotion from primary parenting, older adults can contribute invaluably to children's understanding of lifestage limitations and the importance of…

The following social problems suggest the need for an intergenerational movement in the United States: (1) the social isolation of old and young; (2) the political and social strain resulting from Federal budget allocations; and (3) the labor shortage and its impact on social services. Programs linking elders and the young can address these…

Relationships between old and young have been problematic throughout much of the history of Western civilization. Although intergenerational conflict has accelerated in the twentieth century, pre-industrial and industrial periods in Western societies saw numerous family, economic, and property tensions between generations. Contemporary conditions…

Reasons for evaluating intergenerational programs are presented, and unique features and basic components of these evaluations are described. Strategies and methodologies used in the program evaluation process are systematically outlined. Careful and serious evaluation can provide insights into problem areas, successful program elements,…

The crisis in child care results from the increase in employed parents and the inadequacy of child caregiving resources. This serious family problem can be addressed through advocacy by national intergenerational coalitions, through establishment of day care centers in senior citizen housing, and through elder employment as teachers and…

Maintains that children's museums provide unique opportunities that engage families in intergenerational exploration and learning. Provides criteria for selecting a museum that serves developmental needs of children and adults alike. (BB)

Volunteers can make significant contributions in service to children and youth both by working on behalf of education and by augmenting the learning that schools provide. The merger of the National School Volunteer Program and the National Symposium on Partnerships in Education to form the National Association of Partners in Education is seen as…