News Photos Anna Smith
Pictures from Methanex Kiddies' Day in Pioneer Village on Friday Afternoon during the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede.
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Roughly 800 children flocked to Pioneer Village on Friday for a full afternoon of activities with volunteers and family members on Methanex Kiddies’ Day.
“We’ve got all sorts of activities going on,” said Lori Seidlecki, President of the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede and Kiddie’s Day organizer.
“Bouncing castles, numerous games, scavenger hunt, a coloring contest, Gumball contest, free prizes for every scavenger hunt turned in. If you can think of it, it’s probably here.”
Thanks to sponsorship by Methanex and the devoted volunteering of everyone involved, everything is available free of cost to families, something Siedlecki expresses deep gratitude for.
The list of volunteers includes 12 members of visiting royalty, interacting with the children and helping facilitate various games.
“I love coming because, what better place can you bring your family just for a ton of fun that doesn’t cost, especially in this day and age,” said Patty Rooks with PRAXIS Science Outreach, who hosts a table at Kiddies’ Day every year.
“Look at all the activities they can do, you know. And for us, science just is a natural fit, because it’s fun. I try to do things that are in everyday life, low cost, and we also have things they can take home and do later,” said Rooks.
This year, PRAXIS offered optical illusions, clucking chickens, among other hands-on activities to continue learning during summer break.
Rooks commented that it seemed like a good turnout for the year, with steady engagement from families across the stations, and she is, as always, delighted to be invited out as a regular part of the annual festivities.
Siedleck encouraged people to consider potentially volunteering with the Stampede themselves, and do their part to put smiles on the faces of families around the community.
“We are always looking for volunteers for the organization. This is one of many events that volunteers can get involved in and help out even if it’s just for the one day,” said Siedlecki.
