Fall outing brings young children and parents together for hands-on learning and community building.

A trip to the pumpkin patch offered families in Educational Service District (ESD) 112’s Early Head Start home-based program more than a chance to pick the perfect pumpkin.

On Wednesday, Oct. 21, families gathered at Bi-Zi Farms in Vancouver for a fall outing filled with opportunities for young children to explore, learn and play alongside their parents and other families. The visit took the place of a regularly scheduled Early Head Start socialization playgroup, with parents requesting the pumpkin patch as an alternative to their usual meeting place at the center.

The event was expected to bring together about 23 children and 33 adults, offering families a chance to connect outside their regular home visits.

“Raising young children can feel isolating, especially when families don’t have many opportunities to connect with other parents,” said Sarah Washburn, ESD 112 family support and health services manager. “These outings help families build friendships, share experiences and feel part of a community. They’re also a wonderful way for children to learn through play.”

Learning together, at home and beyond

The pumpkin patch outing is one example of how ESD 112’s Early Head Start home-based program brings families together while supporting young children’s learning and development.

The program serves eligible expectant parents and families with children from birth to age 3. Families receive weekly home visits from education and family support specialists who work with parents to support their children’s learning, growth and development.

Families also have two opportunities each month to gather for group activities. These events give children a chance to play with others their age while parents meet, share experiences and build relationships.

For María, whose daughter Lucía participates in the program, those opportunities to learn and connect are especially meaningful.

“I like that she learns new things and that she learns to connect with the other children around her,” María said.

At Bi-Zi Farms, families had the opportunity to explore a working farm known for its annual pumpkin patch and fall activities. The farm offers wagon rides, farm animals and other hands-on experiences that introduce young children to new sights, sounds and textures.

When asked about his favorite part of the field trip, 3-year-old Logan had a simple answer: “Tractor!”

The learning won’t end when families leave the farm. In the weeks following the visit, Early Head Start specialists will build on the experience through educational activities during home visits. These activities will help parents turn everyday experiences into opportunities for learning and discovery.

Supporting the whole family

Early Head Start recognizes that parents are their children’s first and most important teachers. The program partners with families to help children develop the skills they need for a strong start in life.

In addition to early learning activities, families receive support for child development, health and nutrition, parenting goals, and access to community resources.

For Riley, whose 3-year-old son Logan is an only child, Early Head Start offers valuable opportunities to build social skills and prepare for preschool.

“He’s an only child, so we need all the help and socialization we can,” Riley said.

When asked how the program has supported their family, Riley added, “A lot. It’s helped us get him ready for preschool.”

“Children thrive when they have opportunities to learn and explore and when their families feel supported and connected,” said Jodi Wall, ESD 112’s executive director of Early Care and Education. “Whether we’re visiting families in their homes, welcoming children into our classrooms, or bringing families together for experiences like this, our goal is the same: to ensure every child and family knows they belong and has the support they need to succeed.”

The pumpkin patch outing is one example of how Early Head Start brings learning beyond the home and gives families opportunities to make lasting connections.

Early learning opportunities available for local families

ESD 112 Early Care and Education continues to enroll eligible families in its Early Head Start program, which offers both home-based services and center-based child care for infants and toddlers.

Families can choose the option that best meets their needs. The home-based program includes weekly visits and group activities, while the center-based program provides full-day child care and early learning experiences.

ESD 112 also has openings in its Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), which offers preschool for eligible children ages 3 to 5.

Families interested in learning more about Early Head Start or ECEAP can visit www.esd112.org/ece or call 360-952-3466 to explore available options and eligibility requirements.

Editor’s note: María’s comments were translated from Spanish into English.