Kinder Kareer Day at Plains School
Miss Chloe learns what it takes to be a contract worker during kindergarten career day at Plains School on Friday. (Erin Jusseaume photos/Clark Fork Valley Press)
Mr. Chisholm had just as much fun as the kids on the contruction table talking about all the tools that are used. (Erin Jusseaume/Clark Fork Valley Press)
Kyle Burbach from Burbach Mobile Mechanic lets children at Plains School lift some of the tools.
Plains School came alive last Friday as two kindergarten classes indulged into career day, learning about different community helpers.
“We have been learning about all the different community helpers the last two weeks and the kids are really excited to meet everyone that has come down today,” said Ms. Hillerman one of the kindergarten teachers.
The young kinders all gathered outside on the grass as they were split into groups before they went to meet all the different helpers that brought machinery and tools to show them just what they do every day.
From the construction station, to the propane station, the kids enjoyed some hands-on learning and listening to how trucks work.
John Thomas came down as part of Energy Partners propane company and set his truck up as the kids moved through the station.
From the hoses to the controls, the kids from each group were seen to be wide-eyed and full of intrigue as Thomas showed them around the massive truck.
He explained where he delivered the propane and how the winter months were also the busiest.
He then asked the kids if they had a propane tank at their house. There were a few that raised their hands and also knew that he was a pivotal part in helping keep many houses warm during the cold months.
After a quick visit, the groups would move onto another station after they had a look inside the cab of the truck, some even testing out the horn.
The nurses station was another on the rounds that the kids visited. They got to test out their skills with a stethoscope to hear a heart beat.
Though it can be a difficult task for some adults even, there seemed to be a few of the youngsters that showed promise for a future medical career.
The young students learned about a nurse’s purpose and day-to-day duties, practiced putting Band-Aids on their friends.
They then made their way to the construction station that was in front of the massive snowplow from the Montana Department of Transport.
Superintendent Thom Chisholm was also on Kinder Kareer duties as he doubled in showcasing and talking to the students about the construction industry.
A man of many talents, he engaged in a different role that afternoon as he talked about how construction has many different areas of work. He then had the kids to put on safety glasses and showed them how to hammer a nail.
As they all took turns there were some boys and girls who showed some great promise for a future career in construction.
From hammering nails to trying to size themselves against the big plow, the kids learned another trade and about all the parts on the truck.
A look inside the cab and another opportunity to hit the horn was also something they just couldn’t resist.
Finally it was former Plains student Kyle Burbach of Burbach Mobile Mechanic that looked to truly inspire the group of kinders.
He showed them all the compartments that his truck uses to hold all of his tools. Then ensuring a “big bang” finish, Burbach took out his big tools to let the kids have a hold.
From a plumbers wrench to fixed spanners, the kids took the opportunity to see just how strong their muscles were to hold up such the massive oversized tools.
A fun-filled afternoon looked to inspire many youngsters in many possible future careers.
“All the kids have been really excited about today and meeting all the community helpers. It’s been really great for them,” said Rebecca Tuma one of the moms helping on the day.