Preschoolers travel around the world with International Day
They danced in Trinidad Tobago, devoured Jerk Chicken in Jamaica followed by tacos in Mexico.
International Day on Friday, May 25, found Mercer Street Friends prekindergarten students traveling around the world to taste culinary offerings from seven destinations including Germany, Italy, Puerto Rico and Hawaii.
“International Day remains one of our most popular events, so wellattended by parents,” said Lisa D. Banks, director of Mercer Street Friends Preschool located on West State St. “Of course, Hawaii is part of the United States but the kids wanted to do Hawaii. Our students helped with the decorations, plus, they learned about different cultures, customs and food. In the morning, the kids got to stop by Italy and enjoy Italian water ice.”
Mercer Street Friends staff members produced the Viva Italia room where guests enjoyed pasta, pizza, meatballs and an assortment of other favorite food items from Italy.
Each child held a selfcreated passport which allowed them to travel from their home-based country into other rooms which featured food and fun. Arrival into a new country required travelers to have their passports stamped.
Javion Tucker, 5, celebrated International Day with his grandmother, Gail Howlen, who offered exciting plans for her grandson.
“Actually, this International Day prepares Javion for a family trip that we’re going to be taking in the fall. We’re going to Mexico,” Howlen offered. “I had the chance to see the world as a member of the U.S. Army. I’m retired now but being in the Army offered a great opportunity to not only serve my country but also to visit many interesting places. I want the same for Javion. Traveling, seeing how other people live, play, work and eat, is a real eye opener.”