Samantha Sewell

? Our 4th Annual Trip to Davidson Orchard ? Today we celebrated one of our favourite yearly traditions — our visit to Davidson Orchard! A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who joined us, helped transport backpacks, and carried pumpkins big and small. Your presence and partnership make days like this so special. In the Reggio Emilia approach, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Excursions like this allow children to connect with the land, see where their food comes from, and experience community in a living, tangible way. The orchard becomes a classroom of wonder — filled with questions, discoveries, and sensory experiences that can’t be replicated indoors. We return inspired, a little muddy, and full of stories to revisit together in the days ahead. ?✨ Shout to to Ms. Davidson who not only celebrated her first Davidson trip with Raising Stars but her first EVER city bus ride!

Local tourism was celebrated at the Sundog Festival in Vernon, BC, where culture, community, and creativity were highlighted. The festival was attended to showcase how art, music, and food bring people together in the Okanagan. The Vernon Sundog Festival was experienced through vibrant performances, artisan markets, and family-friendly (FREE) activities, with the goal of encouraging visitors and residents alike to support local events. By attending the Sundog Festival, the importance of tourism in Vernon, British Columbia, was promoted while community spirit was captured on film.

The annual Grindrod Garlic Festival was held on Sunday, August 24th in Enderby, BC, celebrating a North Okanagan tradition. Garlic, artisans, and local farms were showcased, and community support was encouraged. A wonderful way to experience Okanagan culture!

Today we visited Splash Down Vernon with Sonia and Wyeth, and it turned out to be such a fun surprise! Going in, I wasn’t too optimistic about what slides Sonia could ride—or even what Wyeth could go on—but I was pleasantly surprised. With an adult, they were able to enjoy all but 5 of the slides, which made it a fantastic experience for everyone...even the little.

? About Splash Down Vernon:
Splash Down Vernon is a family-friendly waterpark in Vernon, British Columbia, featuring exciting waterslides, a lazy river, a splash pad for younger kids, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. It’s the perfect summer activity for families, kids, and anyone looking to cool off while having fun.

? Pro Tip: The last 4 hours of the day are offered at a discounted rate, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy all the rides and attractions without missing out.

We were able to experience everything at the park, and it felt like such a great way to support local attractions in Vernon. Whether you’re visiting the Okanagan or looking for fun things to do in Vernon with kids, Splash Down is a must-do summer activity!

On July 25th, the Raising Stars Preschool Adventure Program took a nature-filled trip to Coldstream Park! ?? Our journey began down a scenic forest path leading to a wide open field filled with trees, a peaceful creek, and shady beaches perfect for exploration. The children had a wonderful time building log bridges, skipping rocks, and engaging in imaginative play among nature. Coldstream Park offers an ideal setting for outdoor learning, risky play, and nature-based education—core elements of our Reggio-inspired preschool programming. But the adventure didn’t stop there! Toward the end of our visit, we spotted a bear nearby. Following our safety protocols, we calmly and safely evacuated the park—an important real-world learning moment for children and staff alike. ? This unforgettable day reflects our commitment to safe, meaningful, and enriching early childhood experiences.  #RaisingStarsPreschool #OutdoorLearning #ColdstreamPark #NaturePlay #PreschoolAdventure #BearEncounter #ReggioInspired #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RiskyPlay #FieldTrip #PreschoolLife

As part of the Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program, a visit was made to Armory Park in Vernon, BC. Known for its spacious layout and family-friendly design. The playground area features a large sandy surface, making it ideal for sensory play and physical activity. Children explored two swings, a fun climbing structure, one-of-a-kind slides (one slide has a slant & curb), and a tunnel perfect for imaginative games and movement-based learning. Adding to the excitement, an Unplug and Play toy chest was discovered on the field—filled with free-access toys that encourage screen-free fun, collaboration, and creativity. This visit was part of our Summer Adventurer Program, which helps connect preschoolers with local parks, nature, and their community through hands-on, outdoor exploration.

Raising Stars Summer Adventure Program spent the day exploring Sovereign Park and Beach — a hidden, tucked-away shoreline far from the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist season. This peaceful beach offered the perfect setting for a calm and engaging day of outdoor discovery. Our young adventurers explored gentle walking trails surrounded by nature, shaded picnic tables, a large open field, and convenient public washrooms. Along the way, we encountered incredible wildlife — including a deer and several Canadian geese — igniting curiosity and wonder in the children. At Raising Stars, safety is always our highest priority. During water play, children are only allowed in shallow areas, with water reaching approximately waist height. A teacher is always within arm’s reach to ensure active supervision and support. While the water may appear deeper in photos or videos due to floating or swimming movement, strict safety measures are followed. If families provide life jackets, they are used during water activities. We maintain a low 1:5 teacher-to-child ratio to ensure every child is carefully monitored and supported throughout the day. The Raising Stars Summer Adventure Program blends Reggio-inspired, play-based learning with meaningful outdoor experiences. Sovereign Park and Beach offered a perfect natural classroom where children could explore, imagine, and make lasting summer memories.

On July 18th, the children in our Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program spent a joyful and enriching day at Creekside Park. This field trip was part of our ongoing commitment to providing hands-on, meaningful early childhood experiences that go beyond the classroom. During our visit, the children were fully immersed in outdoor play and nature exploration. They enjoyed splashing in the water, flipping over sticks, collecting leaves, and even discovering the occasional insect. These seemingly simple activities sparked excitement, curiosity, and endless questions—exactly what child-led learning should look like. Thanks to our low 1:5 teacher-to-child ratio, outings like this are not only possible—they’re powerful. With full visibility and attention on every child, we’re able to offer opportunities for what’s known as “risky play” in early childhood education. While the term may sound concerning at first, risky play is an essential part of child development. It allows children to challenge themselves in safe, supervised settings where they learn to assess risk, build resilience, and develop both confidence and independence. Whether it's balancing on logs, navigating uneven terrain, or experimenting with water flow, these moments build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can’t be taught through worksheets or screens. Equally important are the benefits of nature play. Research shows that time in nature supports mental wellness, lowers stress, and improves focus and emotional regulation in young children. It also strengthens language development, social skills, and creativity. At Raising Stars Preschool, we believe that nature is not just a backdrop for learning—it’s an essential part of it. Children who engage with the natural world are more connected, empathetic, and eager to explore. We are proud to offer a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool program that embraces real-world experiences and the natural environment as active partners in education. Our day at Creekside Park was a perfect example of our philosophy in action: children learning through play, exploration, and discovery—guided by caring educators who see each child as capable, curious, and full of potential.

On July 2nd, 2025, Raising Stars Preschool’s Summer Adventure Program visited Black Rock Park in Vernon, BC. Nestled above the city, Black Rock Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vernon and the surrounding hills.

Our preschoolers enjoyed a fun-filled day outdoors—sharing a picnic at the two picnic tables, exploring the grassy hills, and engaging in nature-based play. From catching grasshoppers to finding walking sticks, it was a perfect day of outdoor learning and exploration.

This visit is part of our ongoing Summer Adventure Program, designed to connect children with nature, build social skills, and foster curiosity in safe, supervised outdoor environments.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or Vernon local looking for kid-friendly places to explore, Black Rock Park is a hidden gem for families and early childhood programs alike.

As part of the Raising Stars Preschool Summer Adventure Program, a visit was made to Vernon's Mission Hill Dog Park. A scenic hike was taken, and the fully fenced children’s playground was explored. Natural play materials such as logs and sticks were discovered, and inclusive features—including an accessible swing—were enjoyed.

This hidden gem in Vernon, BC, remains rarely crowded and offers the perfect mix of nature-based play, traditional playground equipment, and inclusive design. Over two months, local parks, trails, and community facilities are explored by preschoolers through this unique program focused on curiosity, outdoor learning, and connection to the land.

On Canada Day, we traveled to Downtown Kelowna, BC to celebrate Canada's most exciting annual events. The Kelowna boardwalk was packed with thousands of people, local vendors, live performances, and activities for all ages.

Sonia and Wyeth enjoyed classic carnival games, face painting, and live entertainment at the waterfront stage. Throughout the day, Miss Legends International Canada walked through the crowd, connecting with festival-goers and representing Canadian tourism, Inclusion, and community spirit.

This Canada Day celebration event showcased some of the very best that Kelowna and the Okanagan have to offer. From family fun to cultural highlights, it was a day full of energy, connection, and summer celebration.

Whether you're visiting Kelowna or exploring local BC events, this is an unforgettable Canada Day experience worth attending.

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BX Creek Trail in North Vernon was explored by Sonia and Wyeth during a peaceful and family-friendly nature walk. This hidden trail is tucked behind several residential neighbourhoods and is often overlooked — making it a quiet and enjoyable option for those seeking a scenic walk without difficult terrain.

A relaxing mix of dirt paths and wooden boardwalks can be found along the creekside, offering a gentle walking experience that is well-suited for families, children, and casual walkers. The trail was appreciated for its natural beauty and ease of access.

However, it should be noted that several streets are crossed throughout the trail system — and in some cases, crosswalks are not provided when transitioning to the next trail section. Caution is advised when navigating these road crossings.

BX Creek Trail was enjoyed for its simplicity, peaceful setting, and family-friendly route. It’s a wonderful choice when outdoor time is needed but a strenuous hike isn’t ideal.

If you're searching for easy hikes in Vernon, BX Creek Trail info, or family walks in Vernon BC, this video is made for you.

? Location: BX Creek Trail, North Vernon, BC
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Vernon's only indoor playground was visited by Sonia and Wyeth for a fun-filled afternoon of exploration and play. This hidden gem is located inside the McDonald's on 58th Avenue in Vernon, BC— and it's the only indoor playground available in Vernon!

Growing up, concerns about cleanliness were always held when it came to fast food playplaces. However, after speaking with McDonald's staff about their cleaning policies and inspecting the structure firsthand, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean and well-maintained the space was found to be.

Though smaller than locations such as EnergyPlex (which will be featured in a future video), this play area was absolutely loved by the kids — earning it two enthusiastic thumbs up! For over an hour, the space was enjoyed all to ourselves, allowing for filming, fun, and free play without interruptions.

This indoor playground is definitely a hit for toddlers and younger children. Even Sonia managed to get turned around inside!

If you're searching for things to do in Vernon with kids, indoor playgrounds near Vernon, or a McDonald's play area review, this video has you covered.

?Location: McDonald's, 58th Ave, Vernon, BC