IN THE NEWS: Sunanda Babu: Bridging Generations with Purpose
Sunanda Babu, 72, a retired scientist, now works part time with preschoolers in Denver.
IN THE NEWS: Early Childhood Service Corps (ECSC) is thrilled to share that one of our dedicated members, Sunanda Babu, has been featured on Colorado Public Radio for her remarkable work with young children. You can read the article here.
At 72, Babu, a retired medical researcher, now spends her mornings at Mile High Early Learning Center in Denver's Lowry neighborhood, engaging young minds with puzzles and counting exercises.
Babu's journey with ECSC highlights the growing trend of older Coloradans stepping into roles in early childhood education. ECSC provides free, online training through Arapahoe Community College and places trained older adults in classrooms across the state. The program addresses a significant shortage of preschool workers, especially in rural areas, while offering retirees a way to stay active and contribute to their communities.
In her interview with Colorado Public Radio, Babu shared the joys of her new role. “I love being with the kids and seeing how they're growing,” she said. “I think I'm a positive influence on these kids.” Her feature underscores the mutual benefits of intergenerational interaction, a core principle of ECSC's mission.
ECSC Director Lisa Armao notes the dire need for preschool workers in rural Colorado. “For every infant spot in rural Colorado, there are seven to ten infants on the waiting list,” she explained. The ECSC program aims to bridge this gap by training older adults who are eager to give back and find purpose in their post-retirement years.
The benefits of ECSC extend beyond just filling staffing shortages. The intergenerational connections formed between older adults, young children, their parents, and classroom staff create a rich tapestry of relationships. Armao has observed the unexpected but delightful bond that forms when “grandparents” are present in the classroom. “A lot of kids don't have access to their own grandparents and really don't have that connection with older adults,” she noted.
ECSC's innovative approach not only supports early childhood education but also provides older adults with a fulfilling way to stay engaged and make a difference. It's a win-win scenario that enriches the lives of both the young and the elderly, fostering a sense of community and continuity across generations.
To learn more about the Early Childhood Service Corps and how you can get involved, visit our page to learn about upcoming cohorts: bit.ly/ECServiceCorps or contact Lisa Armao: lisa@earlychildhoodservicecorps.org