281. How Intergenerational Learning Builds Civic Engagement & Community Connection with Ivy Mitchell

What happens when students and older adults have intentional opportunities to learn from one another?

In this episode of Time for Teachership, host Lindsay Lyons talks with guest Ivy Mitchell, a former civics teacher and creator of Bridging the Generations, about using intergenerational connection to strengthen civic engagement, challenge age-based stereotypes, and help young people see themselves as active members of their communities.

Ivy shares how a simple classroom idea grew into a community event—and eventually into a local cable television program—designed to create meaningful conversations between generations.

At the heart of her work is a powerful goal: counteracting the social forces that disconnect us from one another and creating more opportunities for people to talk with and learn from people they might not otherwise encounter.

Key Takeaways

• Intergenerational relationships can strengthen students' sense of community and civic participation.
• Intentional connection can challenge stereotypes about both young people and older adults.
• Students are often more curious about older adults' experiences than adults might expect.
• Informal experiences like shared meals can help build stronger relationships.
• Educators can start small rather than waiting for a perfect program.
• Community partnerships can make intergenerational projects much easier to organize.
• Students and older adults should both have opportunities to ask questions and share their experiences.
• Civic education can extend beyond government knowledge into authentic community participation.
• Technology and "stranger danger" culture can reduce spontaneous interactions, making intentional connection increasingly important.
• Intergenerational learning benefits both generations, creating opportunities for curiosity, storytelling, belonging, and mutual learning.

Grab the free resource connected to this episode at:

lindsaybethlyons.com/blog/281

Connect With Ivy Mitchell

Website: https://app.smore.com/n/c1tdf-bridging-the-generations-2025