Our two kindergarten classes had such a fun experience visiting Laity Pumpkin Patch (South side) in Maple Ridge. For many of the students, it was their very first pumpkin patch experience. And for the majority, it was their first school bus ride! The morning began with clouds and a chance of light rain. The students were prepared for the rain with boots and rain gear. The weather held out for us, and our cloudy day turned into a fabulous sun-shiny afternoon!
Students had ample time to explore in small groups, thanks to our parent volunteers. The children were excited to visit the barn and the outdoor areas with many animals! We were able to see and touch some of the animals. We saw goats, a “mountain” of sheep, a village of rabbits, chickens, turkeys, and even the “three little pigs” who lived in their houses of straw, sticks and bricks!
The area was divided into many smaller areas for exploration. The western pumpkin town had creative pumpkin displays. Some of the children’s favourites were the saloon and the sheriff’s office where students could pose as the “town thief” inside a jail. Inside the Garden Glow tent was a walk-through of fluorescent pumpkins and characters. Students also enjoyed the corn mazes and obstacle courses. The large games area featured ball tosses, pinball-inspired challenges, pumpkin tic-tac-toe and other unique puzzles and trick shot games.
Students enjoyed the Laity Launcher pumpkin cannon show; it hurled pumpkins at some large stacked barrels. It was such a huge “hit” with the children. At the end of the trip, we travelled to the pumpkin field and each student chose a pumpkin to take home!
It was a bumpy but quick bus ride back to school. Some children managed to get a quick nap on the bus! Ms. Steverding led us with some fun bus-riding songs!
During our journal writing the next day, students were asked to share about their favourite part of the trip, here are a few things that were said:
“I loved petting the animals.”
“It was hard to pick (a pumpkin)…I wish I could take lots!”
“The pigs – I loved the houses.”
“I liked sticking my head out the holes for pictures.”
“I love bus ride.”
“It was glowing and singing in the tent.”
“I love the cute animals. I love cats and bunnies.”
“I like riding the bouncy animals.” (the inflatable toys)
Please ask your child to tell you what their favourite memory or moment was, and feel free to share their answers below in the comment box.
Thank you so much to our educational assistants (Ms. Lee, Ms. Nguyen), as well as all the parent volunteers, and the parents who were able to join us for this memorable field trip! Also thank you to the parents who helped to take photos.
