Excavator exudes excitement to the inner child

Since having children, my social media feeds are filled with local entities and local mom groups so that I can keep an eye on the many events that occur (for free) in the community. Any parent with young children will tell you that one of the hardest parts of parenting is simply finding activities to keep them busy.

I’ve learned the art of making quick in-my-own-head schedules of activities, especially for rainy days. There’s a surplus of art and sensory-related ideas that pop up as I’m thinking ahead from one activity to the next – all to keep them occupied for the maximum amount of time.

So, when I saw posts in our local community’s parks and recreation page for “Touch a Truck” day, I was intrigued. What exactly did that mean? My twin almost 4-year-olds love all things with wheels, and they’ve begun to pass on that love to their younger brother. 

We pass a large construction site every day on the way to and from school, and their excitement is palpable as they wait to see which trucks are moving. On more than one occasion, I’ve been asked to slow down or they’ve wondered whether they can visit the site to see the vehicles. “Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site” is on constant repeat in our bedtime routine.

I started looking into “Touch a Truck” and realized quickly that it was an event that brought in all kinds of trucks and vehicles that serve the community. Kids of all ages have a hands-on experience, climbing on and exploring the things that they’re often told to look at “with their eyes and not their hands.” 

The ultimate goal of these nation-wide events is simple: first, to get kids outdoors and in their local parks; second, to learn about the vehicles and the people who operate them.

My boys’ eyes were as wide as saucers as they saw the not one, but two excavators and front loaders. Their feet couldn’t run fast enough to climb up into the fire truck and visit with the search and rescue dogs. And they watched in awe as the crane lowered and raised its hook into the air. 

As they climbed in, turned the steering wheels or levers, and honked the horns, my kids were ecstatic. With over 30 trucks to choose from, they went from vehicle to vehicle, pulling me and my husband by the hand.

It was truly an experience they’ll remember. And, from my vantage point, it was definitely memorable. When they said kids of all ages, it was clear to see that they truly meant all ages. Even adults – like my husband – channeled their inner child to explore the vehicles that they’ve always admired.

The event reminded me of the importance of seeing life through a child’s eyes – finding excitement in the things that surround us. This summer, it’s my goal to share experiences with the kids, to let go, and have fun.

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