Learning from older people: Wisdom for every generation

Learning from older people is one of the most valuable yet often overlooked opportunities available to children today. As we mark the International Day of Older Persons on 1 October, it is worth reflecting on the important role older people play in the lives of young Australians. In a world that celebrates speed, innovation and constant change, it can be easy to assume that older generations are out of touch. The reality is often the opposite.

Older people bring something that cannot be downloaded, searched or generated by technology. They offer lived experience, perspective and wisdom shaped by decades of overcoming challenges, building relationships and navigating life’s ups and downs. For children and teenagers, these lessons can be just as important as academic learning.

The connection between young people and older adults cannot be undervalued. Research suggests it can strengthen emotional wellbeing, build resilience and help children develop a stronger sense of identity. At a time when many families are looking for ways to support their children’s development beyond the classroom, the value of intergenerational relationships deserves greater attention.

Why older people matter more than ever

Modern childhood looks very different from previous generations. Children spend more time online, communicate through digital platforms and often have fewer opportunities for regular interaction with people outside their immediate age group.

This shift can unintentionally create a gap between generations. Yet older people possess qualities that children rarely encounter elsewhere.

Unlike peers, grandparents and older relatives often provide unconditional acceptance. They are less concerned with competition, social status or achievement. Instead, they tend to focus on connection, encouragement and belonging.

The Australian Institute of Family Studies reports that most Australian parents describe the relationship between their children and grandparents as close or very close. These relationships often remain significant throughout childhood and adolescence.

For children, having trusted adults outside their parents and teachers creates an additional layer of support. These relationships can become especially important during periods of change, uncertainty or stress.

The wisdom children cannot learn from a screen

Knowledge is everywhere and easily accessible, however wisdom is different.

Children can easily find information online. What they cannot easily access is the judgement that comes from experience. Older adults have often lived through economic downturns, family challenges, career changes, health setbacks and major social transformations.

Their stories help children understand that difficulties are a normal part of life rather than something to be feared.

When a grandparent shares memories of growing up without modern technology, moving to a new country or overcoming adversity, children gain perspective. They begin to see that resilience is built through experience and that success rarely follows a straight path.

These conversations also help young people develop critical thinking. Rather than receiving instant answers, they hear different viewpoints shaped by decades of lived experience.

In many cases, older people can offer a long-term perspective that balances the fast-paced nature of modern life. They remind children that patience, gratitude, perseverance and kindness still matter.

Building a stronger sense of identity

One of the greatest gifts older generations provide is a connection to family history.

Children naturally want to understand where they come from. Family stories help answer important questions about identity, values and belonging.

Through conversations with grandparents, children learn about previous generations, cultural traditions and family milestones. They discover how their family responded to challenges and celebrated successes.

These stories create a sense of continuity. Young people begin to see themselves as part of a larger story rather than as isolated individuals.

This is particularly important in multicultural Australia, where family history often includes migration, cultural heritage and experiences that have shaped future generations.

Older relatives help preserve these stories, ensuring they are passed on rather than lost.

How intergenerational relationships support wellbeing

The benefits of learning from older people extend beyond knowledge and family history. Strong intergenerational relationships can positively influence emotional wellbeing.

Research by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) examining thousands of families has highlighted the important role grandparents play in supporting children and family life. Grandparents often provide practical support, emotional encouragement and a stable presence during periods of change.

Children often feel comfortable speaking with grandparents or older relatives about concerns they may find difficult to discuss elsewhere. The relationship can provide a sense of security without the pressures sometimes associated with parenting or peer relationships.

At the same time, the benefits flow both ways. Older adults frequently report that spending time with younger generations brings purpose, joy and connection. The AIFS research has also shown that many grandparents provide regular care for grandchildren because they value building and maintaining close family relationships.

These mutual benefits demonstrate that intergenerational relationships are not one-sided. Both generations gain meaningful experiences and support.

Practical ways to encourage learning from older people

Parents do not need elaborate programs to foster stronger connections between children and older adults. Small, consistent opportunities often have the greatest impact.

Encourage children to ask questions about family history. They might interview grandparents about their childhood, first job or school experiences.

Invite older relatives to share practical skills. Cooking family recipes, gardening, sewing, woodworking or repairing household items can create valuable learning experiences.

Create opportunities for storytelling. Looking through old photographs together often sparks conversations that children remember for years.

Technology can also help. Video calls, shared photo albums and recorded family stories make it easier for children to stay connected with relatives who live further away.

For teenagers, meaningful conversations about careers, relationships and life choices can be particularly valuable. Older adults often provide perspectives that differ from those of parents or peers.

The key is to approach these interactions with curiosity rather than obligation. Children are more likely to engage when conversations feel natural and relevant.

Challenging age-based stereotypes

One reason intergenerational learning is sometimes undervalued is the persistence of age-related stereotypes.

Children are often exposed to messages that associate youth with innovation and older age with decline. While technology and trends may change, qualities such as wisdom, empathy and emotional intelligence remain timeless.

Many older Australians continue to learn new skills, contribute to their communities and adapt to changing circumstances. They are not disconnected from modern life. Instead, they bring a broader perspective that complements contemporary knowledge.

Helping children appreciate this reality encourages respect across generations. It also teaches them that every stage of life has value.

When children learn to see older people as mentors, storytellers and sources of wisdom, they develop a richer understanding of the world and the people around them.

Growing together across generations

The International Day of Older Persons provides an important reminder that older people are far more than observers of younger generations. They are teachers, role models, caregivers and custodians of experience.

By creating opportunities for learning from older people, families can help children develop resilience, empathy, perspective and a stronger sense of identity. These are qualities that support success not only at school, but throughout life.

At All Saints Grammar, we recognise that education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. We believe children thrive when they learn from a diverse community of people, including those whose life experiences offer valuable lessons and inspiration. By fostering respect, connection and lifelong learning, we help students from PreKinder to Year 12 develop the character and understanding needed to contribute positively to the world around them. To learn how All Saints Grammar is shaping bright minds, kind hearts and bold spirits, register for one of our small group tours.