The field trip was more than just a visit—it was a chance for the kids to step into the shoes of real firefighters. They learned about the vital role these brave community helpers play, and many even got to live out a childhood dream by climbing into the fire truck! The experience was unforgettable, fueling their imagination and setting the stage for some serious creativity back in the classroom.

 

After returning to school, the learning didn’t stop. Instead, it came alive through robust pretend play. The Kindergartners transformed their classroom into a bustling mini-city, complete with firefighters, police officers, veterinarians, farmers, and even a post office. Through play, they weren’t just having fun—they were grasping the complexities of how a community functions and the roles each person plays in keeping it running smoothly.

 

To enrich their understanding even further, a veterinary surgeon and a police officer visited the classroom to share stories about their professions and answer eager questions from the students. These visits brought more depth to their play, allowing the children to better understand the roles they were acting out. The students also got a close-up look at the school’s postal truck, giving them hands-on knowledge about how mail moves through the community. Excitement continues to build as future plans include a visit to a local farm, where they will learn all about the role farmers play in sustaining a community.

 

What’s truly special about Friends is how play is woven into the fabric of learning. With three recesses a day, the children have plenty of time to explore, create, and grow through play. It’s in this playful exploration that they build critical thinking skills, collaborate with their peers, and immerse themselves in meaningful learning experiences. Whether it’s pretending to rescue a kitten from a tree as a firefighter or delivering mail in their pretend post office, these kids are learning more than they realize.

 

At Friends, learning doesn’t just happen in textbooks—it happens in fire trucks, playgrounds, and through the joy of pretending.