As part of our place-based mission our students learn not only about our local environment, but also our local community. This week our Aspen class took a field trip to the McCall Rehab and Care Center to interact with a population in our community that is often overlooked, nursing home residents.

Our trip began with a ride on the local bus from our school to the Rehab Center. We are so fortunate to live in a community that provides free public transportation, and very appreciative of the fact that they’ll accommodate groups of 12 preschoolers! Thank you McCall Transit!

For most students this was their first time using public transportation. Prior to getting on the bus we practiced our good bus manners – saying ‘good morning’ to the bus driver when getting on, keeping our bottoms in our seats, and saying ‘thank you’ when we get off the bus. The bus ride was very exciting for the students as they recognized familiar places around town. Some of our favorite student quotes from the ride…

“We just passed my house! We just passed my street!”

“I see the lake. This is fun!”

“That’s my grandma Linda’s!”

“This is the pump track way.”

 “I see a crane. There’s a huge crane!”

The students were complimented by a local bus rider on how well mannered they were!

We had a short walk from the bus stop to the rehab center…

Our favorite children’s librarian, Miss  Melody (local superstar!), led the preschoolers from Roots, Once Upon a Rhyme Play School, and the seniors in a story time filled with gingerbread themed songs and stories.

The students were captivated by Miss Melody’s songs and stories, and the seniors sat by all smiles, enjoying the students delight at Miss Melody’s engaging presence (admittedly one senior did fall asleep!).

Following the story time students headed to the craft tables for gingerbread play dough exploration. Some seniors pulled up a seat and joined in the fun while others sat nearby chatting and smiling, taking in the sounds of laughter and delight permeating their usually quiet space.

Our time together ended with the sharing of some delicious gingerbread cookies made by our friend Miss Laura from Once Upon a Rhyme. The seniors were just as tickled to have cookies as the preschoolers (especially right before lunch)!

Once Upon a Rhyme Play School, in conjunction with the McCall Rehab and Care Center, started this weekly story time in November, calling it  “Rhyme Time with Granny Goose.”

They meet Wednesdays at 11am for fun stories, songs, and social interaction with the residents at the care center. Hot chocolate and coffee are provided. Kids of all ages are invited to come help light up the residents’ faces with your smiles and sillies!