Keeping the Doctor Away with Play: The Transformative Power of Bringing Together Kids and the Elderly w/ Gil Shliser

Sababoosh

In a world that often keeps generations apart—in separate spaces, rhythms, and conversations—a quietly revolutionary Israeli TV show called שמונים וארבע / 4 + 80 asks: what if we brought them together?

The show follows a beautiful experiment that pairs kindergartners with residents of retirement homes, creating a shared space for joy, curiosity, vulnerability, and connection. On the surface, it might sound simple—children and seniors doing crafts, playing games, singing songs—but what unfolds is something far deeper: a reminder that wonder and wisdom aren’t bound by age, and that loneliness and love are both universal languages.

At the heart of שמונים וארבע is Gil Shliser. Through this unique experience. Through Gil’s eyes, we see the real magic of early childhood education—not just the ABCs and finger paints, but the cultivation of empathy, emotional intelligence, and the courage to connect.

The show gently explores the transformative power of intergenerational learning. The children gain not just new “grandfriends,” but access to stories, patience, and attention they might not otherwise experience. The elderly, in turn, are given a renewed sense of purpose, delight, and presence. These interactions don’t just bridge the gap between generations—they dissolve it.

Today, we’re joined by Gil himself to talk about his journey on and off the screen, the lessons he’s learned from both the youngest and oldest among us, and why this kind of human connection might be one of the most powerful educational tools we have.

BIO

Gil Shliser (age 51) is a devoted father to Keren, Aviv, and Ree’i. A lifelong athlete and reservist in an elite IDF unit, Gil is best known as the beloved educator and founder of Gan Perachai HaBar—a unique early childhood program that builds heartwarming intergenerational connections between young children and senior citizens.

"I was raised on the values of education and chose to dedicate my life to transforming early childhood education," Gil shares. With over 20 years of experience in the field, he co-founded Gan Perachai HaBar 18 years ago with Valeria in the town of Kadima, Israel. Since then, the Montessori-inspired Israeli program has expanded to additional locations in Pardes Hanna and Kadima Tzoran.

His latest project, featured on the documentary series "80 and Four," is a powerful initiative that brings preschool children into senior living communities, creating moments of joy, connection, and healing.

"For me, this project is an incredible opportunity to strengthen the intergenerational bond—not only within families but across society. My dream is to establish permanent spaces where such meaningful encounters can happen every day. I hope this show inspires others to bring kindergartens into senior homes across the country."

Gil is passionate about fostering empathy and acceptance in children while restoring a sense of meaning and value to the lives of older adults. "In the end, we all benefit from this connection."

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