Hand-in-Hand We're Changing the Future of Education: Introducing the Intergenerational Approach and Promoting the Need for Trained Professionals.

As the demand for quality intergenerational care increases, it is imperative that intergenerational care providers exhibit developmentally appropriate practice across the lifespan. This paper defines intergenerational programming and discusses the emergence of intergenerational studies as integrating the fields of early childhood education and gerontology. The paper details the need for cross-training for practitioners involved in existing intergenerational programs and describes the development of guidelines and standards for intergenerational specialist practice. Six standards are detailed along with sample key indicators. The following options for providing cross-training are explained: (1) academic preparation related to curriculum planning and implementation, program evaluation, family systems, theory, cultural differences, and social policy; (2) experiential opportunities such as service-learning and internships; and (3) on-the-job training utilizing the guidelines and standards. The paper concludes by noting that the success of an intergenerational specialist depends on the quality of education and training he or she receives. Education, experience, and training based on the guidelines and standards for intergenerational practice will prepare practitioners to develop a program philosophy, thereby providing a strong foundation upon which an effective, sustainable intergenerational program may be built. (Contains 14 references.) (KB)