
Meet the Founder
Monique Waterhouse
Hi, I’m Monique and I founded Big Little Buddies Inc. in 2021. I have a background in psychology and education, working as a wellbeing coordinator in a primary school for many years, and I have a passion for working with children, especially when it involves music.
I stumbled across the magic of intergenerational connections when I accompanied primary school-aged students to a local aged-care centre and saw how truly mutually beneficial the visits were for both generations. The residents’ faces just lit up upon the children’s arrival, and I had kids chasing me down in the playground asking if it was their week to visit the centre. I could see straight away that this was something special and worth pursuing.
I love how simple intergenerational connections are – it’s really not rocket science. When you bring generations together and allow them to enjoy what each other has to offer, beautiful connections are formed, and a heap of fun and joy is had.
Big Little Buddies Inc. was founded to bring that magic to the lives of more elderly aged-care residents, many of whom experience significant isolation and loneliness, especially post pandemic. It is a true honour to lead the sessions and witness first-hand the heartwarming connections and precious moments week after week.
Outside of BLB, I’m a Mum to 3 of my own ‘little buddies’, and just so happen to live in a multigenerational set-up with my Mum as well. Intergenerational connections are present in lots of facets of my life, and it is so much better for it.
