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Rock ‘n’ roll brings generations together in Glen Ellyn

Rock ‘n’ roll helped bridge the gap between generations Wednesday in Glen Ellyn.

Seniors from Sunrise Senior Living joined about 45 preschoolers at Arbor View Elementary School for a music program called Little Wing, presented by the Glen Ellyn School of Rock.

Grooving to James Brown’s “I Feel Good,” Sunrise resident June Frank got up and danced, clapping and high-fiving with several the youngsters.

“I enjoyed it,” she said. “I had a good time. It’s always nice to be with the little kids.”

The youngsters and seniors also sang, danced and played instruments to rock classics such as “Magic Bus” by the Who, “Get Off My Cloud” by the Rolling Stones and “We Will Rock You” by Queen.

Little Wing Director Ella Duda says the program is designed to help preschoolers foster cognitive and motor skills.

She said students started making monthly visits to Sunrise’s Glen Ellyn facility beginning in June, and it seems to help both the kids and the seniors.

“It’s a really good way for (the seniors) to keep their mind young with music.” Duda said. “They enjoy having the kids around.”

Mary Shafer, activities and volunteer coordinator with Sunrise Senior Living, says the kids help brighten the residents’ day.

“It changes their mood,” she said. “Their day is uplifted and exciting.”

  June Frank, left, and Char Burghardt dance along with preschoolers on their visit Wednesday to Arbor View Elementary School in Glen Ellyn. Bev Horne/bhorne@dailyherald.com
  June Frank dances to James Brown’s “I Feel Good,” along with preschoolers from the Glen Ellyn School of Rock. Bev Horne/bhorne@dailyherald.com
  Carter Magnussan, 3, with a little help from his teacher Chris Gillis, gives Shirley Bouchez from Sunrise Senior Living a high-five during their visit Wednesday to Arbor View Elementary in Glen Ellyn. Bev Horne/bhorne@dailyherald.com
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