Kids Village

When to Start Preschool: A Guide for Utah County Parents

Mikelle Despain — Thu, 14 May 2026 18:59:58 +0000

When to Start Preschool: A Guide for Utah County Parents

Few parenting decisions feel as weighty as choosing when and where to send your child to preschool for the first time. Parents in Utah County ask the same questions every spring and summer as enrollment season approaches: Is my child ready? Am I starting too early? What if I wait too long?

The honest answer is that readiness is far less mysterious than it seems. With the right information and a clear picture of what to look for, this decision becomes much more navigable.

At Kids Village™, we've been guiding Utah County families through this conversation since 2003. As a private preschool in Orem, Utah serving children ages 2½ through 2nd grade, we've watched thousands of children take their first steps into a learning environment and seen firsthand how the right start at the right time can shape a child's entire relationship with school. What follows is a practical, experience-grounded guide to help you make this decision with confidence.

Voted Best Preschool in Utah County, 2016–2026 [VERIFY-LOW: confirm award years remain current], Kids Village has been serving families throughout Utah County since 2003 — at our private preschool in Orem, Utah. We're also proud to have been Voted Best Private Preschool in Utah, 2015–2026 [VERIFY-LOW: confirm award years remain current]. These recognitions reflect two decades of families who trusted us with their children's earliest learning experiences.

In This Article

What Age Should My Child Start Preschool? Signs Your Child Is Ready for Preschool Signs Your Child May Benefit From Waiting Why the School Environment Matters as Much as Age What Utah County Parents Should Ask When Choosing a Preschool Frequently Asked Questions

What Age Should My Child Start Preschool?

Most child development experts agree that children become developmentally ready for a structured early learning environment somewhere between ages 2½ and 4. That range exists for good reason: children develop at genuinely different rates, and chronological age alone tells only part of the story.

In Utah, kindergarten is compulsory the year a child turns 6, which means families have real flexibility in how they approach the preschool years. Many Utah County families choose to begin at 2½ or 3 precisely to take advantage of the early developmental window when language acquisition, social development, and foundational cognitive skills are forming at their fastest pace. Research consistently shows that children who enter kindergarten with a strong early learning foundation arrive ahead of peers who did not attend preschool — not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well.

Ages 2½ to 3: The Gentle Introduction

Children at this stage benefit most from sensory-rich, play-centered environments where language and social engagement happen naturally rather than through formal instruction. Two-day-per-week programs are typically the right pace. At Kids Village, this is the world of Little Sprouts and Sweet Peas, with programs designed specifically for the youngest learners, where the goal is not academic output but a child's first warm, confident experience of learning alongside others.

Little Sprouts — Early Preschool (Ages 2½)

Kids Village's earliest program welcomes children at age 2½ into a nurturing, sensory-rich environment where the focus is on warmth, confidence, and a child's very first experience of learning alongside peers.

Learn more about the Little Sprouts program

Ages 3 to 4: Curiosity Takes Over

By age 3, most children are ready for more structured learning experiences, longer sessions, and broader social interaction. This is when curiosity explodes. Three- and five-day programs become realistic and productive options for children who have the social and emotional foundation to handle them. Children at this age are genuinely hungry to learn, and the right environment channels that energy into skills that matter.

Sweet Peas — Preschool (Ages 3)

The Sweet Peas program meets growing curiosity with structured, joyful learning through five-senses exploration, peer interaction, and foundational academic activities designed for three-year-olds in Orem and across Utah County.

Learn more about Sweet Peas preschool

Ages 4 to 5: Building Kindergarten Readiness

Pre-K readiness becomes the central focus in this window. Children are actively developing executive function, vocabulary, early literacy, and the social skills they will need for a successful kindergarten transition. At Kids Village, this is the Tater Tots stage — a year of intentional preparation that consistently sends our graduates into kindergarten well ahead of grade-level expectations.

Tater Tots — Pre-K (Ages 4–5)

The Tater Tots pre-K program is a year of intentional preparation for kindergarten, blending Saxon curriculum-based academics with the full range of Kids Village workshops. Graduates consistently enter public and private kindergartens across Utah County ahead of grade-level peers.

Learn more about the Tater Tots pre-K program

Signs Your Child is Ready for Preschool

ties that tend to appear together when a child is approaching the right developmental window. You're looking for most of these signals, not every single one.

Social and Emotional Readiness

Your child shows genuine interest in other children and wants to play near or with peers. They can tolerate brief separations from you without prolonged distress. They are beginning to express emotions with words (even simple ones like "mad," "sad," or "happy") and can follow a simple two-step direction such as "put your shoes on and come to the door." None of these need to be perfect or consistent. Emerging is enough.

Physical Readiness

Your child can manage basic self-care tasks like washing hands, putting on a jacket, and carrying a bag. They have the stamina for a structured half-day program without becoming completely overwhelmed.

Cognitive and Language Readiness

Your child shows curiosity about books, pictures, colors, and numbers. They speak in simple sentences and can make their basic needs understood. They can focus on a single activity for at least five to ten minutes without constant redirection.

If your child checks most of these boxes, the developmental window is likely open. Starting in the right environment sooner rather than later tends to serve children well.

Signs Your Child May Benefit From Waiting

Readiness conversations go both ways, and we would be doing Utah County parents a disservice if we only talked about green lights. Some children simply need more time, and there is no shame in that. In fact, the founding story of Kids Village is rooted in exactly this truth.

Our founder, Ann Whittaker, built this school after watching her own son, labeled "developmentally delayed," struggle in an environment that could not see his gifts. That experience shaped everything about how Kids Village approaches children who are still finding their footing. It is the reason we believe deeply that an imperfect fit between a child and their first school experience can do more harm than a delayed start.

Watch for these signals that a child may benefit from a gentler entry or a few more months at home:

Separation anxiety that is severe and persistent rather than just first-day nerves
Very limited verbal communication that makes basic interaction with peers difficult
Difficulty with any transition, even small ones at home
Consistent discomfort in group settings including family gatherings or playgrounds

None of these signals means your child is not ready for preschool ever. They often mean your child needs a smaller, more individualized environment rather than a delay. Many Utah Valley families find that a two-day-per-week program at age 2½ eases the transition beautifully, even for children who are initially very hesitant.

Why the School Environment Matters as Much as Age

Timing is only half of the readiness equation. The environment your child enters matters just as much as when they enter it.

A large, impersonal classroom where a child feels invisible can set back even a child who was developmentally ready. A warm, structured, and genuinely stimulating environment can accelerate a child who seemed borderline ready by six months. This is why Orem families who are on the fence about timing often find that a school visit resolves the question faster than any checklist.

Kids Village was built from the ground up to feel safe, magical, and deeply personal. Children walk into a storybook village with cobblestone paths, a life-sized oak tree at the center of town, cottage-style classroom storefronts, and warm twinkle lights overhead. Every child receives a personalized book bag and a red apron embroidered with their name on their first day. These are not decorative details. They are deliberate signals to a young child that this place was made for them.

Inside, children move through up to 8 workshops [VERIFY-MEDIUM: confirm current number of daily workshops], including a professional-grade kitchen for cooking, an engaging science workshop, art studio, music and drama room, computer lab, and more. Learning happens through all five senses: touching, tasting, seeing, hearing, and doing. This five-senses learning methodology is especially well suited to children who are active, curious, or who do not thrive in passive, sit-and-listen formats.

The academic foundation rests on the Saxon curriculum, a nationally recognized program consistently rated among the top three early learning approaches for more than 30 years. Children who graduate from Kids Village regularly enter kindergarten and public school ahead of grade-level peers. Voted Best Preschool in Utah County, 2016–2026 and Voted Best Private Preschool in Utah, 2015–2026, Kids Village has maintained full enrollment since 2008, with most new families joining by referral from current or former families.

What Utah County Parents Should Ask When Choosing a Preschool

Once you've determined your child is approaching readiness, the next step is evaluating your options carefully. The questions that matter most are not about tuition rates or location. They are about fit.

Does the environment match my child's temperament?

A child who is sensitive or easily overstimulated needs a calm, structured setting. A child who is energetic and social needs room to move and interact. No amount of reading about a school substitutes for a visit. Walk through the space during a school day and watch how children and teachers interact.

What does the daily structure look like?

Variety and predictability are not opposites in a well-designed preschool program. Children thrive on routine but disengage from monotony. Ask how many different activities a child experiences in a typical day and how transitions between them are handled. Programs where children are doing the same thing for long stretches are missing what early childhood development research tells us about how young children actually learn.

How does the school handle the transition period?

Every experienced preschool has a thoughtful, practiced plan for helping children separate from parents. Ask specifically what the first two weeks look like, what support teachers provide, and how the school communicates with you during that period. Vague answers are a yellow flag.

What is the academic approach, and where do children go after?

If you want your child prepared for kindergarten and beyond, ask about curriculum, measurable outcomes, and where alumni students typically land. At Kids Village, the consistent answer is that our graduates enter public and private schools across Utah County noticeably ahead of their peers.

Does the school treat parents as partners?

You should feel like an informed participant in your child's experience, not an outsider. Ask how teachers communicate progress, concerns, and daily highlights. The answer tells you a great deal about the school's philosophy toward families.

When you're ready to see the difference a truly exceptional private preschool makes, we would love to show you around. Schedule a tour at Kids Village and experience the storybook village for yourself. You can also explore our programs to find the right fit for your child's age and schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the right age to start preschool for a child in Utah County?

Most early childhood educators recommend beginning preschool between ages 2½ and 4, depending on your child's social, emotional, and language development. In Utah, kindergarten is compulsory at age 6, which gives families meaningful flexibility in how they structure the preschool years. Children in Utah County who begin preschool at 2½ or 3 in a nurturing, structured environment consistently enter kindergarten with stronger vocabulary, social skills, and early literacy foundations than peers who did not attend preschool.

That said, every child is different, and a brief conversation with an experienced educator can help you read your child's readiness more clearly. Visit our Utah County preschool page for more detail on age-based program options.

What makes Kids Village different from other Utah County preschools?

Kids Village offers something genuinely unlike any other option for Orem and Utah Valley families: a storybook village learning environment with cobblestone paths, a life-sized oak tree, themed workshop classrooms, and a curriculum that engages all five senses every single day. Children move through 8 workshops covering not just reading and math but cooking, science, music, drama, art, foreign language, and more.

The academic backbone is the Saxon curriculum, nationally rated in the top three early learning programs for more than 30 years. Kids Village has been voted Best Preschool in Utah County, 2016–2026 and Voted Best Private Preschool in Utah, 2015–2026. Most families join by referral, and enrollment has been filled every year since 2008. To see the difference in person, schedule a tour.

"Children move through 8 workshops — far more variety than a typical Utah County preschool — covering reading, math, cooking, science, music, drama, art, foreign language, and more. Every day in the village is genuinely different."

My child has a speech delay or developmental concern. Should I wait to start preschool?

In many cases, the answer is no. Waiting is not always the right choice for children with speech delays or developmental differences. Early, structured language exposure in a nurturing environment can actively support development rather than strain it.

The founding story of Kids Village speaks directly to this: our founder built this school after her own son, who had been labeled "developmentally delayed," was placed in an environment that could not meet his needs. That experience is the reason Kids Village is built around individualized attention, multi-sensory learning, and the conviction that every child has gifts waiting to be discovered.

How do I know if my child is emotionally ready for preschool?

Emotional readiness does not require perfection. It requires a few key building blocks:

The ability to tolerate brief separation without sustained distress
Some interest in other children
The ability to express basic needs verbally
The capacity to follow simple directions

Children who are not yet consistent in all of these areas are not necessarily unready. They may simply need a smaller class size, a gentler start such as two days per week, and an environment where teachers know their name and personality from day one.

At Kids Village, every child receives a personalized book bag and a red apron embroidered with their name before they ever walk through the door. That level of personal attention makes a real difference for children navigating their first big step away from home. Explore our programs to find the schedule and age group that fits your child best.

About the Author

Mikelle Despain

Author at Kids Village

Mikelle Despain has contributed expert articles on early childhood education to Kids Village for over a decade. With a background in child care and child development, as well as firsthand experience as a mother of four, she offers thoughtful, family-centered insight to help support parents and young learners.

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The post When to Start Preschool: A Guide for Utah County Parents appeared first on Kids Village.

What Is Five-Senses Learning — and Why It Works Better Than Worksheets

Mikelle Despain — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:45:43 +0000

Ask most parents what preschool "should" look like, and many will describe a small child sitting at a table, pencil in hand, tracing letters on a worksheet. It is a familiar image. It is also, according to decades of early childhood research, one of the least effective ways to help young children learn. At Kids Village™, we built our entire approach around the opposite idea: that children under eight learn best when their whole body is involved, not just their eyes and their grip. That philosophy is what we call five-senses learning, and it is the foundation of our award-winning curriculum. If you have ever wondered what actually happens inside the little storybook village on North State Street in Orem, this article is your answer.

Our curriculum was designed from the ground up to engage children through sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, because that is how young minds are wired to process and retain new information. Every lesson, every workshop, and every activity at Kids Village connects academic content to a real, physical, sensory experience your child will remember long after the school day ends.

Voted Best Preschool in Utah County, 2016–2026, Kids Village has been serving families throughout Utah County since 2003 — at our private preschool in Orem, Utah, where five-senses learning is not a supplement to the curriculum. It is the curriculum.

In This Article

Why Worksheets Fall Short for Young Learners What Five-Senses Learning Actually Means How We Put It Into Practice Every Single Day The Role of the Storybook Village Environment What the Research Says About Multisensory Learning What Kids Village Children Take Away Frequently Asked Questions

Why Worksheets Fall Short for Young Learners

There is nothing wrong with a pencil. Your child will need one. But a preschool or kindergarten experience built primarily around paper-based tasks misses something fundamental about how children between the ages of two and eight actually develop.

Young children are in a critical window of neurological growth. Their brains are forming connections at a rate that will never again be matched in their lifetime. During this window, the most powerful learning happens through direct, concrete experience. When a child touches something rough and hears the word "texture," the word sticks. When a child smells cinnamon while learning about spices from around the world, the geography lesson becomes a memory. When a child counts real objects with their hands rather than symbols on a page, the math concept moves from abstract to real.

Worksheets, by contrast, ask children to work at the symbolic and abstract level before they have built the concrete foundation that makes symbols meaningful. For many children, especially those who are kinesthetic learners, auditory learners, or children with developing language skills, worksheet-heavy instruction does not just fail to teach. It teaches children that learning is hard, dull, and something that happens to you rather than something you do.

That distinction matters deeply to the families who choose our private preschool in Orem Utah, and it is why so many Utah County parents specifically seek out a program built around active, sensory-rich learning.

What Five-Senses Learning Actually Means

Five-senses learning is exactly what it sounds like: a deliberate, structured approach that routes every academic concept through as many of the five senses as possible. It is not "free play with a learning label." It is purposeful, teacher-guided instruction that uses the full sensory environment as the medium.

At Kids Village, this means:

Sight goes beyond looking at a board. Children observe experiments, examine specimens, watch things grow in the garden, and navigate the visually rich storybook village environment itself. Visual input is layered with context, not presented in isolation on a flat page.
Sound is woven into learning through music, rhythm, language, and storytelling. Children learn phonics through songs. They experience history through stories and role-playing, and incorporate life values into learning.
Touch is one of the most powerful and most underused senses in traditional early education. At Kids Village, children handle real materials. They knead dough in the cooking studio. They plant seeds in the garden. They build, sort, stack, and manipulate objects in ways that make abstract concepts concrete and memorable.
Taste and smell are integrated intentionally, particularly in cooking and science activities. When children taste what they have made or smell the ingredients in a lesson, they create a sensory anchor for the learning that no worksheet can replicate. Parents often tell us that their children still talk about specific cooking projects months later, which is not an accident. Taste and smell are processed in the same part of the brain that handles long-term memory.

This is what separates five-senses learning from supplemental enrichment. It is not an add-on. It is the architecture of the entire school day.

How We Put It Into Practice Every Single Day

One of the most common questions from Utah County families visiting Kids Village for the first time is, "How do you actually fit all of this into a school day?" The answer is in our workshops and incremental learning. Students rotate between academic and workshop classrooms each day, building on familiar themes and curriculum throughout each method of learning.

Rather than spending the school day in a single classroom rotating between subjects on a schedule, children at Kids Village move through a variety of themed workshop spaces. Each workshop targets a different domain of learning and a different combination of senses. The variety is intentional. It mirrors the way young children naturally engage with the world: in short, intense bursts of focused curiosity, not in long passive stretches.

Our workshop spaces include a kitchen and cooking studio, a science lab, an art studio, a computer lab, and a music and drama room, among others. In the cooking studio, a math lesson about fractions becomes a recipe. In the science lab, a lesson about the water cycle might involve mist, color, and temperature. In the drama room, a history concept becomes a performance. These are not isolated fun activities bolted onto a "real" curriculum. They are the curriculum, expressed through hands-on, multisensory experience.

To explore how these workshops connect across program levels from our youngest Little Sprouts to our Grade School students, visit our programs page and explore our programs in detail.

Sweet Peas Preschool Program

Our Sweet Peas preschool program puts five-senses learning into practice for 3-year-olds through guided workshops, hands-on projects, and the full storybook village experience.

Learn more about the Sweet Peas preschool program

The Saxon Early Learning curriculum we use, consistently rated among the top three early childhood academic programs nationally with over 30 years of proven results, provides the academic backbone that gives our five-senses approach its structure and rigor. Families should not mistake multisensory learning for an absence of academic ambition. Children at Kids Village cover reading, phonics, math, science, and history alongside life skills including cooking, music, foreign language, drama, gardening, and personal values. They leave us consistently ahead of grade-level peers in public school settings.

The Role of the Storybook Village Environment

Environment is not decoration at Kids Village. It is pedagogy.

The moment your child walks through the doors at 1641 N. State Street in Orem, they enter a space unlike any other school in Utah Valley. Cobblestone paths wind through a village of cottage-style classroom storefronts lit by twinkle lights. At the center of it all stands a life-sized oak tree, the visual heart of a space designed to make learning feel like an adventure rather than an obligation.

Why does this matter for learning? Because young children are exquisitely sensitive to their environment. A child who feels wonder in their surroundings is a child whose brain is primed for curiosity. A child who looks forward to walking into school is a child who arrives open, engaged, and ready to learn. The storybook village is not whimsy for its own sake. It is a carefully constructed context that reinforces everything we know about how emotion, environment, and memory work together in early childhood.

Each child receives a personalized book bag as a welcome gift and wears a red apron embroidered with their name, as do our teachers. These small details create a sense of belonging and identity that is itself a form of learning: your child is a valued member of this community, and this place was made for them.

For families across Utah County and the broader Orem area visiting for the first time, the most common response we hear is that the space does not look like any school they have ever seen. That is entirely by design.

About the Author

Mikelle Despain

Author at Kids Village

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by Mikelle Despain | Apr 22, 2026

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by Mikelle Despain | Mar 15, 2024

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« Older Entries

The post What Is Five-Senses Learning — and Why It Works Better Than Worksheets appeared first on Kids Village.

Questions to Ask on a Preschool Tour

Mikelle Despain — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:38:35 +0000

If you are visiting private preschools in Orem or anywhere in Utah County, asking the right questions during your tour can help you look beyond appearances and get a clearer picture of how a school actually works day to day. A clean and beautiful space can be easy to discern, but it’s the teaching approach, teacher training, communication, safety procedures, and the way children are treated that matter most.

Before you schedule a tour, it helps to know which questions will tell you the most about a school’s curriculum, culture, safety procedures, and kindergarten-readiness approach. Below are some of the most important questions to ask on a preschool tour that will help you get a better feel for whether the school aligns with your goals for your child, along with why each one matters.

1. What does a typical school day look like?

Ask the school to walk you through a normal day from arrival to pickup.

You want to understand how time is structured, how much of the day is hands-on versus teacher-led, how transitions are handled, and whether the rhythm of the day feels calm, engaging, and age-appropriate. A strong preschool should be able to clearly explain what children do throughout the day and why those activities matter.Before you schedule a tour, it helps to know which questions will tell you the most about a school’s curriculum, culture, safety procedures, and kindergarten-readiness approach.

This question can also help you picture how your child may adjust to the new routine.

2. What is your approach to early childhood learning?

Every school has its own philosophy and priorities. Some focus more heavily on academics, some lean more play-based, and others work to balance structured learning with creativity, movement, and social-emotional growth.

Ask how the school approaches reading readiness, early math, hands-on learning, creativity, and life skills. Try to look beyond buzzwords for a clear explanation of how children learn in that environment. If the person providing the tour answers without the detail you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to speak up!

3. How do you help children adjust when they are nervous or upset?

Starting preschool is a major transition for many children. Some feel excited right away, while others need time to build trust and confidence.

Ask how teachers respond when a child is crying, missing a parent, struggling with separation, or simply having a hard day. Their answer will tell you a lot about the emotional tone of the school and whether children are treated with patience, warmth, and consistency.

4. How do you handle behavior challenges?

It is important to know how a school responds when children hit, bite, struggle with transitions, or have conflict with peers.

Look for an answer that reflects consistency, age-appropriate expectations, and respectful guidance. You want to understand how the school teaches children to regulate emotions, solve problems, and interact well with others — not just how they react when something goes wrong.

5. What does your curriculum include?

When you’re asking about the curriculum during your preschool tour, keep in mind that preschool should support the whole child. Ask what children are learning academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.

This is a good time to ask about pre-reading skills, phonics, math foundations, fine motor development, social development, music, art, movement, and any enrichment opportunities the school offers. A strong answer should help you understand how the program prepares children not only for kindergarten, but for a positive relationship with learning.

This is also where you get to decide your opinion on Common Core. For preschools in Utah County, charter schools and public schools are required to follow Common Core, while private schools can choose a different standard of learning. Some parents find themselves aligned with these standards while others prefer a different approach.

6. How much time do children spend in active play or outdoor play?

Young children need movement. Outdoor play, imaginative play, and physical activity not only help children balance energy, they also help children build coordination, confidence, social skills, and self-regulation.

Ask how often children go outside or to an active play environment, what active or outdoor play looks like, and how the school balances active play with classroom learning.

7. What is your student-to-teacher ratio?

This is one of the most practical questions you can ask when evaluating a preschool for your child. Especially for young students that are newly entering the school environment, more one-on-one attention helps them work through speed bumps they wouldn’t otherwise know how to communicate.

Smaller ratios often allow for more support, more individual attention, and stronger relationships between teachers and children. Ask about class size, the number of adults in the room, and how support changes by age group or program.

8. What training and experience do your teachers have?

Your child’s teachers matter tremendously. Ask about teacher experience, early childhood education backgrounds, ongoing training, CPR and first aid certification, and how the school supports teacher development.

You can also ask how long teachers typically stay. Strong retention often signals a healthy school culture, and consistency can be especially meaningful for young children.

9. How do you communicate with parents?

Good schools view parents as partners.

Ask how often you will hear from teachers, whether communication happens daily or weekly, how concerns are handled, and how families are updated about progress, behavior, and important school information. You want to know what communication looks like in real life, not just in theory.

10. How do you integrate technology into your lessons?

Consider the amount of technology you’d like your child to be exposed to during their early learning experiences, and be sure to ask about it during your preschool tour.

Some schools use technology briefly to support lessons (for instance, a science video showing the process from caterpillar to chrysalis, to butterfly), while others may integrate tablet learning into daily routines. Based on your viewpoint of technology, this question will help you learn if the preschool is aligned with your goals.

11. What do you do if a child isn’t willing to participate?

As a parent, you know that some days your child is ready for anything, while other days they’d prefer to sit back and watch. This question can help you understand how your child will be treated on their “off” days. Look for patience, consistency, and care in the answer.

12. What safety and security procedures do you have in place?

When you tour a preschool, ask specific questions about safety instead of assuming every school handles it the same way.

Ask about building access, visitor procedures, drop-off and pickup policies, emergency drills, classroom supervision, and how the school keeps children secure throughout the day. This question often reveals how thoughtfully a school operates behind the scenes.

13. What happens if a child gets sick during the day?

Health policies are worth discussing before you enroll.

During your preschool tour, ask how the school handles illness, when parents are contacted, what symptoms require pickup, and what the expectations are for returning to class. You can also ask about handwashing, classroom cleaning, and general hygiene procedures.

14. How do you support kindergarten readiness?

Even if your child is still young, it is helpful to understand how the school thinks about long-term growth.

Ask what skills children are expected to build before kindergarten and how the program helps them develop academically, socially, and emotionally over time. This is especially useful when comparing schools that may sound similar on the surface but differ in how intentionally they prepare children for the next stage.

15. What makes your school different from other preschools?

This question gives the school an opportunity to explain its strengths in its own words.

Listen for specifics. Strong answers may include teaching philosophy, school culture, enrichment opportunities, the learning environment, staff quality, communication style, or the way children are known and cared for as individuals. Generic answers are less helpful than thoughtful, concrete ones.

16. Can I see the classrooms and learning spaces in action?

If your preschool tour happens during school hours, ask to observe the environment instead of relying only on descriptions.

Notice whether the classrooms feel calm, welcoming, and organized. Watch how teachers speak to children. Look for age-appropriate materials, engaged students, and a learning environment that feels both structured and warm. Sometimes what you observe during a tour tells you just as much as the answers you hear.

What to Pay Attention to Beyond the Questions

As important as your questions are, pay attention to the overall feel of the school.

Ask yourself:

Do the teachers seem warm and attentive?
Do the children look engaged and comfortable?
Does the environment feel organized and inviting?
Can the staff explain their approach clearly?
Can you picture your child here?

The best preschool fit is not always the one with the flashiest space or the longest list of features. It is the one where your child is most likely to feel safe, known, encouraged, and excited to learn.

Touring Preschools in Orem or Utah County?

If you are comparing preschool options in Orem, it can help to review each school’s programs, curriculum, enrollment process, and frequently asked questions before your visit so you know what to ask and what to compare.

At Kids Village, families can explore our preschool programs for ages 2½ through 2nd grade, learn more about our curriculum, and schedule a tour to see the school in person.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you are looking for a private preschool in Orem, Utah, we invite you to learn more about Kids Village, explore our programs, and schedule a tour. Seeing a school in person is one of the best ways to decide whether it feels like the right fit for your child and your family.

Schedule a Tour

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Talking to Young Kids About Veterans Day: A Parent’s Guide with Fun and Meaningful Activities

Mikelle Despain — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 17:11:21 +0000

At Kids Village, a private preschool and K-3 school in Orem, we deeply value patriotism and take pride in teaching our students to appreciate the sacrifices and contributions made by servicemen and women. Veterans Day provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce these young minds to the values of gratitude and respect for those who have protected our country. Through age-appropriate conversations and engaging activities, we aim to help our students understand the importance of honoring veterans in a way that is both fun and meaningful. Here are some ideas and activities to help parents and educators alike bring the spirit of Veterans Day into the lives of young children.

Veterans Day Activities for Young Children

Veterans Day is a special time to honor those who have served in the military, helping keep our country safe and strong. For preschool to second-grade kids, understanding military service and its importance can be challenging. Here are some fun, age-appropriate ways to help your little ones understand Veterans Day and show appreciation for the servicemen and women who protect our country. With simple explanations and engaging activities, you can introduce them to this meaningful holiday in a way that’s friendly and easy to grasp.

1. Explaining Veterans Day in Simple Terms

Kids learn best when things are kept simple. Start by introducing the concept of a “veteran” as a helper—someone who has worked to keep people safe. You might say, “A veteran is someone who helped protect our country,” or “They are special helpers like police officers or firefighters.” Avoid discussing complex ideas like war; instead, focus on the idea of service and bravery.

Visual aids can be helpful here! You could look through family photos, read a picture book about veterans, or show them a short, gentle video about military helpers. Great books to start with include Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood by Valerie Pfundstein and The Poppy Lady by Barbara Walsh. They offer relatable stories that introduce the idea of Veterans Day in a friendly way.

2. Making Thank-You Cards for Veterans

Crafting thank-you cards is a hands-on way for kids to express their appreciation, and it’s fun too! Let them know that Veterans Day is a time to say, “Thank you” to people who have worked hard to keep everyone safe. Provide some ideas for what they could draw or write—maybe hearts, flags, or even a simple “Thank you for helping us!”

Once they’ve created their masterpieces, think about delivering or mailing these cards to a nearby veterans’ organization, VA center, or local veterans’ hospital. Some families even bring their cards to a local Veterans Day event. It’s a beautiful way to connect, and kids will feel proud seeing their kind gestures make a difference.

3. Host a Virtual Storytime with a Veteran

Kids are naturally curious about other people’s lives, and a short, simple story from a veteran can really make the holiday come to life. If you have a family member or friend who is a veteran, see if they’d be willing to share a story over a video call or in person, focusing on friendly tales of bravery and teamwork. Just a short talk about their job in the military and why they enjoyed it can go a long way to spark kids’ curiosity and respect.

You can also read a book together that highlights veterans’ roles. H is for Honor by Devin Scillian is a fantastic alphabet book that introduces military life in a way kids can understand.

4. Patriotic Crafts: Making American Flags and Poppies

Kids love creating things with their hands, so patriotic crafts are a perfect choice. You could make simple American flags from construction paper and crayons, or craft red poppies—the traditional symbol of remembrance—using tissue or construction paper. These are beautiful projects that can be proudly displayed around the house.

Explain that the flag represents our country, and poppies are a special flower we use to remember those who served. Kids will feel a sense of pride when they see their decorations around the home, and it reinforces the importance of honoring others.

5. Family Connections and Story Sharing

Encourage your kids to ask about veterans in your family or among family friends. If you have relatives who served, take some time to share stories, look at photos, or talk about why they served. It’s a simple way to create a personal connection to Veterans Day and helps your kids relate to the holiday in a real, tangible way.

If your family doesn’t have direct military connections, you can still talk about other helpers in the community—like police officers, teachers, and doctors. This helps kids understand that service comes in many forms and that showing gratitude is important.

6. Patriotic Songs and Rhymes

Singing is a fantastic way for little ones to learn, and patriotic songs are fun and engaging. Consider teaching a simple song like “This Land Is Your Land” or “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” Kids love to sing along, and these songs introduce a sense of pride in America in a friendly, age-appropriate way.

For added fun, consider a little marching parade around your home or yard, waving small flags and singing along. It’s a joyful way for them to feel involved in the day’s celebration!

7. Explore an Interactive Map

Young kids are often fascinated by maps, so this is a great time to explore where people across the country live and serve. Grab a U.S. map and explain that veterans have helped keep people safe all across the country. You could place stickers on the states where family members live or add stars to areas where your family might know someone who served.

8. Creating a Veterans Day Word Wall

Introduce a few Veterans Day words like “brave,” “service,” “country,” “flag,” and “honor.” Write them out on paper or sticky notes, and place them somewhere visible. Talk about what each word means in simple terms, like “brave” means “someone who is not afraid to help” and “service” means “helping others.”

Encourage your kids to use these words throughout the week, and see if they can use them in sentences or drawings. It’s a fun way to build vocabulary while also learning about the holiday.

9. A Moment of Reflection

Finally, end your Veterans Day activities with a quiet moment of reflection. Explain that sometimes we show our appreciation by taking a quiet moment to think about those who help others. Lead your child in a minute of silence, encouraging them to reflect on all the people who help protect others every day.

For young kids, sitting still for a minute might feel like a big ask, but even a few seconds helps them connect with the day’s purpose and teaches respect in a gentle way.

Final Thoughts

With these ideas, you can introduce Veterans Day in a way that helps your child learn about service, bravery, and appreciation. These activities help them understand that Veterans Day isn’t just another day on the calendar, but a chance to honor real people who have worked hard to protect our country. As you talk with your little ones, remember that it’s all about keeping things simple, interactive, and positive—showing them the value of gratitude in a way they’ll remember. Happy Veterans Day!

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Talking to Young Kids About Veterans Day: A Parent’s Guide with Fun and Meaningful Activities

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Tips for Encouraging Children to Read During the Summer

Mikelle Despain — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 20:11:26 +0000

With the allure of outdoor activities and family fun during the summer, books often take a back seat. However, summer reading can significantly enhance a child’s skills, imagination, and academic preparedness. Here are some fun and effective ways to ignite a passion for reading in children during the summer months.

1. Establish a Reading Routine

Children thrive on routine, and establishing a specific reading time each day can help make reading a normal part of summer. Whether it’s a quiet morning moment or a pre-bedtime wind-down, a consistent reading time can help children build a habit. Keep this time free from distractions like television or smartphones, making reading a focused activity.

2. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

Designate a special place in your home as a reading nook. It doesn’t need to be large; a corner of a room with some cushions, good lighting, and easy access to books can make an inviting and comfortable reading spot. Personalize the space with your child’s artwork or favorite themes to make it more enticing.

3. Join a Library Summer Reading Program

Many local libraries offer summer reading programs that motivate children with activities, games, and reading challenges. These programs often feature a theme and provide a structured yet fun framework for reading. They also give children a chance to interact with peers who are also participating, which can encourage a friendly competition in reading.

4. Choose Books Based on Interests

One of the best ways to engage children in reading is by selecting books that align with their interests. If your child loves space, pick books about astronauts and space missions; if they’re into sports, look for books about their favorite sports or athletes. Graphic novels and comic books are also great for reluctant readers as they provide visual stimuli along with text.

5. Set a Family Reading Challenge

Make reading a family activity by setting up a summer reading challenge. You could set goals like “read 20 books over the summer” or “read books from each continent.” Reward the family with a special outing or a treat when the goal is met. This not only motivates children but also allows parents to model good reading habits.

6. Incorporate Technology Wisely

While screen time is often seen as a deterrent to reading, it can be a helpful tool if used wisely. E-readers and reading apps can make reading more interactive and engaging for tech-savvy kids. Additionally, audiobooks are excellent for children who struggle with reading or have learning disabilities. They can listen to a story while following along in the book, which can improve word recognition and reading fluency.

7. Explore Book-Related Activities

Extend the reading experience by including activities related to the book’s theme. After reading a book about gardening, for instance, spend an afternoon gardening together. If the book was about baking or cooking, try out a recipe from the story. These activities help children make connections between what they read and the real world, deepening their understanding and engagement.

8. Encourage Reading Reflection

After your child finishes a book, have a casual discussion about it. Ask questions about their favorite parts, characters, and what they learned. This not only improves comprehension skills but also makes reading a shared, social experience. You could also encourage them to keep a journal where they can write or draw something about each book they read.

9. Read Aloud Together

Even if your children are able to read by themselves, shared reading sessions can be very rewarding. Choose a book that is slightly above their reading level and read it aloud together. This practice improves listening skills, vocabulary, and comprehension. It’s also a great bonding activity and can be a lot of fun with dramatic renditions of dialogues and narration.

10. Rotate Books Regularly

Keep the reading material fresh and interesting by rotating books regularly. This could mean swapping books with friends, checking out new releases from the library, or revisiting old favorites in a new format. A varied and dynamic book selection helps maintain interest in reading throughout the summer.

By weaving these ideas into the summer days, reading can become an enjoyable and enriching part of a child’s daily activities. With a little creativity and encouragement, children can discover the joys of reading and enter the next school year better prepared and more inspired.

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Activities to Celebrate International Family Day

Mikelle Despain — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:55:46 +0000

International Family Day, celebrated on May 15th, is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories with your children. This special day emphasizes the importance of families, and what better way to celebrate than engaging in activities that cater to all ages and interests? Here are some ideas to make International Family Day both fun and meaningful for your family.

1. Family Time Capsule

Create a family time capsule that encapsulates your family’s current life. Have each family member contribute something special to the capsule, such as a small toy, a drawing, a letter to their future self, or a list of current favorites—movies, books, or foods. Choose a date in the future when you will all open the capsule together, and bury it in your backyard or store it in a safe place. This activity not only celebrates the present but also builds anticipation for a future gathering where these memories will be cherished.

2. Cultural Heritage Day

Dedicate International Family Day to exploring your family’s cultural heritage. Prepare traditional dishes together, share stories from your ancestors, or dress in traditional clothing. You could also explore music and dance from your cultural background, turning your living room into a lively festival of your heritage. This is a great way to teach children about their roots and the diversity within their own family.

3. Outdoor Adventure

If the weather permits, take the celebration outdoors. Go for a hike in a nearby nature reserve, have a picnic in the park, or organize a family sports day with activities like soccer, frisbee, or a relay race. Being outside offers plenty of space for physical activities that are enjoyable for children and adults alike. This not only helps in burning off excess energy but also in appreciating the beauty of nature together.

4. DIY Craft Project

Engage in a DIY craft project that everyone can contribute to. This could be as simple as making a family banner, where each member decorates a part of the banner, or as involved as building a birdhouse or creating a family scrapbook. Crafts allow children to express their creativity and when done together, can become a cherished keepsake that represents everyone’s collaborative effort.

5. Movie Marathon

Have a family movie day with films that highlight the importance of family. Let each family member pick their favorite movie so everyone’s tastes are considered. Don’t forget the popcorn and homemade snacks! This can be a relaxing way to wind down after a day of activities, and it allows everyone to come together and enjoy some downtime.

6. Volunteering Together

Teach your children the value of giving back by engaging in a volunteer activity as a family. Whether it’s helping out at a local food bank, cleaning up a community park, or participating in a charity walk, volunteering not only helps the community but also strengthens your family’s sense of teamwork and empathy.

7. Storytelling Evening

End the day with a storytelling session where each family member tells a story. It could be a personal story, a fairy tale, or a story about an ancestor. Use props, costumes, or even shadow puppets to make the storytelling more engaging. This activity is great for all ages and can help foster a love for storytelling and enhance listening skills.

International Family Day is all about celebrating the unique bond each family shares. By participating in activities that include everyone’s interests and contributions, you not only honor the spirit of the day but also reinforce the importance of family in everyday life. So, pick one or more of these activities and make International Family Day a memorable event for your family.

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Raising Happy, Motivated Children

Mikelle Despain — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:39:35 +0000

1. Establish Secure Attachment

Secure attachment between a child and caregiver is foundational for happiness and motivation. This bond is developed when a caregiver consistently responds to a child’s needs with warmth, understanding, and predictability. According to attachment theory, securely attached children are more likely to exhibit curiosity, resilience, and motivation. Ensure regular, engaged, and supportive interactions to build this secure base.

2. Emphasize Process Over Outcomes

Encouraging a growth mindset in children by focusing on effort rather than innate ability can significantly affect their motivation and overall happiness. Dr. Carol Dweck’s research on a growth mindset highlights that children who are praised for their hard work and strategies rather than their intelligence are more likely to embrace challenges and persist despite failures. This approach helps children develop a love for learning and an understanding that ability can be developed through dedication and effort.

3. Promote Autonomy and Involvement

Giving children some control over their activities and decisions can boost their motivation and happiness. Autonomy-supportive parenting, where parents provide options and respect children’s choices, leads to higher intrinsic motivation. When children feel that their opinions matter, they are more engaged and enthusiastic about the tasks at hand. Whether it’s choosing a weekend activity or deciding on a project to work on, involving children in decision-making processes empowers them and boosts their self-esteem.

4. Create a Positive Home Environment

A positive home environment, characterized by love, safety, and support, is crucial for the development of happiness. Regular family rituals, open communication, and a supportive atmosphere can reinforce children’s sense of security and belonging. A study by the American Psychological Association suggests that such environments are linked to better social skills and higher levels of happiness in children. Encourage positive interactions among family members and model respectful and caring behavior.

5. Encourage Social Connections

Strong relationships with peers and adults play a significant role in a child’s emotional health. Encourage your children to engage in social activities that allow them to form friendships and connect with others. Activities like team sports, music classes, or group projects not only help children develop essential social skills but also provide them with a network of support, enhancing their happiness and resilience.

6. Teach Coping Skills

Equipping children with effective coping skills to manage stress, disappointment, and change is essential for maintaining their motivation and happiness. Techniques such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, and problem-solving can be taught from a young age. These skills help children face challenges head-on and emerge stronger, rather than feeling defeated by setbacks.

7. Encourage Physical Activity and Play

Physical activity is not only vital for physical health but also for psychological well-being. Regular exercise and unstructured playtime can significantly enhance mood and energy levels, fostering both happiness and motivation. Play allows children to express themselves creatively, explore their environment, and develop physical and cognitive skills.

8. Limit Exposure to Technology

While technology can be educational and entertaining, excessive screen time has been linked to decreased happiness and increased behavioral issues in children. Set reasonable limits on the use of technology, and make sure it does not replace valuable face-to-face interactions or physical activities. Encourage more engaging activities like reading, arts and crafts, or family games.

9. Model Positive Behaviors

Children learn by watching their parents. Display behaviors you wish to instill in your children, such as perseverance, empathy, and joyfulness. Your enthusiasm for your interests and your positive coping methods during difficult times can serve as powerful examples for your children.

Final Thoughts

Raising happy, motivated children involves a combination of love, support, and strategic guidance. By focusing on these areas, parents can create an environment that not only meets children’s basic needs but also supports their emotional and psychological growth. This multifaceted approach can help develop resilient, motivated, and joyful individuals ready to face life’s challenges.

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How to Raise Emotionally Resilient Children

Mikelle Despain — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:24:01 +0000

Here are some expert tips for fostering emotional resilience in your children:

1. Model Emotional Resilience

Children learn a great deal by observing their parents and caregivers. Showing your own emotional resilience during challenging times is one of the most powerful ways to teach your child how to handle their emotions. This includes showing them how you manage stress, recover from setbacks, and face your own difficulties.

2. Encourage Open Communication

Create a home environment where feelings are openly discussed. Encourage your child to express their emotions clearly and without fear of judgment. This can be achieved by regularly asking them about their day and how certain events made them feel. Active listening plays a crucial role here—make sure to listen to understand, not to respond, which helps your child feel valued and supported.

3. Teach Emotional Regulation Skills

It’s important to teach children that while all emotions are valid, the ways they respond to them can be managed. Techniques such as deep breathing, counting to ten, or writing down feelings in a journal can help children learn to cope with negative emotions in a healthy way. Role-playing various scenarios can also be a helpful way to teach children how to react in different situations.

4. Build Problem-Solving Skills

Encouraging problem-solving skills helps children develop the capacity to handle challenges creatively and effectively. This involves guiding them through the process of identifying a problem, thinking of possible solutions, and evaluating the outcomes of these solutions. It’s important not to rush to solve problems for them but instead support them in finding their own solutions.

5. Set Realistic Expectations

Setting achievable goals and realistic expectations for your children helps prevent feelings of inadequacy and promotes a sense of accomplishment. Be sure to recognize their efforts as much as their achievements. This encourages perseverance and effort, which are important components of emotional resilience.

6. Foster Connections

A strong support network of family and friends provides children with a sense of security and belonging. Encourage your child to build and maintain friendships. Participating in group activities, whether through sports, clubs, or community services, can also help them develop social skills and feel connected to a larger community.

7. Encourage Empathy and Kindness

Teaching empathy not only aids in emotional development but also helps children understand and connect with the feelings of others. Discuss how other people might feel in various situations and why. Encouraging acts of kindness and showing appreciation for others’ feelings fosters empathy.

8. Promote Resilience Through Failure

Help your children understand that failure is a natural part of learning and growth. Teach them to view setbacks as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to feel defeated. Encourage them to try again and explore different strategies, which enhances their problem-solving skills and resilience.

9. Prioritize Mental Health

Just as physical health is important, so is mental health. Encourage activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and adequate sleep. Be mindful of signs of stress or anxiety in your child and do not hesitate to seek professional help if needed.

10. Provide Unconditional Love and Support

Finally, the foundation of a child’s emotional strength often lies in knowing that they are unconditionally loved and supported. Make sure your children know that your love does not depend on their achievements or behavior. This secure attachment fosters their confidence and willingness to explore their emotions and the world around them.

By integrating these strategies into your everyday parenting practices, you can help your children develop the emotional strength that will benefit them throughout their lives.

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St. Patrick’s Day Activities for Kids

Mikelle Despain — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 21:57:01 +0000

St. Patrick’s Day can be a fun holiday to engage children’s curiosity and excitement about the holiday while incorporating elements of learning and creativity into the activities. Here are some ideas to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with young children:

Leprechaun Hunt – Create a playful scavenger hunt with clues leading to a hidden pot of gold (chocolate coins). Along the way, each clue could teach something about St. Patrick’s Day or Ireland.
Rainbow Experiments – Use simple kitchen supplies to create rainbow-related experiments, such as mixing colors, creating rainbow bubbles, or a milk color explosion activity to explain color theory.
Plant Greenery – Teach kids about the importance of plants and greenery in our lives by planting something green together, such as shamrocks or simple herbs. It’s a great way to talk about nature and growth.
Irish Music and Dance – Introduce children to traditional Irish music and teach them a simple Irish jig or dance. This can be a fun way to learn about another culture through music and movement.
Story Time with Irish Folktales – Read Irish folktales or stories about St. Patrick. This can be an opportunity to learn about myths, legends, and the history behind the holiday.
Crafting with Rainbows and Shamrocks – Engage in arts and crafts by making rainbow or shamrock decorations. Use different materials like paper, fabric, or natural items to explore textures and creativity.
Cooking Simple Irish Dishes – Together, prepare simple Irish dishes or green-themed snacks. This can be an excellent way to introduce culinary skills and talk about nutrition and the food culture in Ireland.
Nature Walks – Go on a nature walk to explore the outdoors and search for signs of spring or natural greenery. It’s a good opportunity to teach about different plants and the importance of nature.
Make a Leprechaun Trap – Encourage creativity and problem-solving by building a ‘leprechaun trap’ with recycled materials. This playful activity can spark discussions about legends and imagination.
Learn Simple Gaelic Words – Introduce children to the Irish language by teaching them simple words or phrases in Gaelic, emphasizing the importance and fun of learning new languages.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Participate in or create your own small parade with homemade instruments and decorations. This can be a way to discuss the concept of celebrations and community.
Green/Rainbow Science Projects – Explore simple science projects with green or rainbow themes, such as experimenting with plant growth, making rainbows with prisms, making St. Patrick’s Day-themed slime, or seeing how food coloring interacts with . It’s a way to integrate STEM learning with the holiday theme.

These activities can provide a balanced mix of fun, education, and cultural appreciation suitable for young children. Do you have any fun St. Patrick’s Day traditions or activities? Please share them in the comments below!

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2024 Family St. Patrick’s Day Events Near Utah County

Mikelle Despain — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 21:42:32 +0000

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun opportunity for families to partake in the joy and cultural richness of Irish heritage. Near Utah County, families looking to embrace the spirit of this festive holiday have many options to choose from. Whether it’s participating in vibrant parades, engaging in interactive scavenger hunts, or enjoying traditional Irish music and dance, the area is brimming with family-friendly events.

This weekend, gather your loved ones, don your green attire, and prepare for an adventure that blends fun, education, and cultural appreciation. Here are some fun family-friendly events to consider!

South Utah County Catch the Leprechaun

Calling All Treasure Hunters!!! Register for a fun-filled scavenger hunt to local businesses and storefronts to receive gifts and prizes.

Learn more here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-utah-county-catch-the-leprechaun-tickets-852491644457

2024 Vineyard City Gold Rush 5K & Kids 1K

We are excited to offer a 5K & Kids 1K as part of our 2024 Gold Rush Race Series. The flat 5K race course will be chip-timed. The 5K route includes a beautiful trail view of Utah Lake and the opportunity to receive a real Golden Dollar coin if you can beat the race Leprechaun!

Strollers are allowed in each race. If a parent/guardian is interested in running alongside their child(s) in the Kids 1K race, only the child(s) need to register for the race.

Learn more here: https://runsignup.com/Race/UT/Vineyard/2021VineyardCityGoldRush10K5KKids1K

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Siamsa

This annual celebration takes place on March 16th at The Gateway in Salt Lake, starting with the parade at 11 am followed by the Siamsa (Celtic Festival) until 5 pm. The theme for 2024 is “Celebrating Irish Hospitality,” promising a family-friendly atmosphere with live entertainment, vendors, and traditional Irish food and drink specials.

Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=798589635637293&set=a.471858638310396

Brigham Young University Presents International Folk Dance Ensemble Matinee

Sat, March 16, 2024 2:00 PM MDT, Conference Center Theater

The International Folk Dance Ensemble will present Journey: Reflections, a 90-minute voyage of dance and music that explores the heartbeat of the world’s cultures. Journey: Reflections entertains with Irish hard shoe, American clogging, Ukrainian Hopak, Indian bhangra, and much more.

Learn more here: https://mpv.tickets.com/?agency=LDSV_PLAGENCY_MPV&orgid=42549&eventId=2264#/event/E2264/ticketlist/

Lucky Laces 5k Walk & Health Fair

University Place, Orem

Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the 2024 Lucky Laces 5K & Health Fair. There will be an adults & kids green jello eating contest before we start the 5k. Registration is FREE, but limited. Participants that ARE registered will be entered into drawings for prizes & receive UP swag. Children under 5 or that are in strollers DO NOT need to register.
Free breakfast snacks after the 5k, while supplies last.

Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/events/2065375553841787/

St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt

Provo Beach, 4801 N University Ave.

Join us for a St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt!

Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/events/945410807141336/

Creative Kids’ End of the Rainbow

Easely Art Studio, 7211 Plaza Center Dr Suite 170, West Jordan, UT 84084, USA

Learn how to paint, step-by-step! All art supplies included with a medium canvas. This class is for kids just learning to paint, or have a little prior experience. An artist will demonstrate the featured painting, and everyone will have a completed painting by the end of class. Recommended ages 8-12, but anyone can join! Parents are welcome to paint along too.

Learn more here: https://www.easelyartstudio.com/events/creative-kids-end-of-the-rainbow

Gallery Stroll for Fables & Folklore Show

As the seasons shift and the air fills with the promise of renewal, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of cultural traditions and legendary tales that have stood the test of time.

From March 5th to March 31st, the Urban Arts Gallery at The Gateway will come alive with the imaginative creations of talented artists who have woven tales through their art, bringing to life legendary creatures, mythical landscapes, and cherished folktales.

“Fables & Folklore” is a celebration of the mythical, the legendary, and the traditional – a testament to the enduring power of storytelling across generations.

Mark your calendars for a special Gallery Stroll reception on March 15th from 6-9pm, where you can mingle with fellow art enthusiasts, meet the artists behind the enchanting exhibits, and immerse yourself in the magic of the evening.

Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/events/3720849208137336/

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