Kaleidoscope, the Preschool and Childcare Center on North Beach Road is a sweet and fun place to be, to visit, to volunteer at.  An invitation to stop by Kaleidoscope was posted in its newsletter. Lloyd Pinneo and I did just that and we stopped in to return again and again. We so enjoyed ourselves there in this world of discovery, wonder and fun that we volunteer with the children and staff alike.  Lloyd most likely had some of these kids’ parents riding on his school bus. Full circle of island folk.

These children, from one-month-old babes to after school aged kids, are busy learning formative life lessons, cooperation and sometimes are self directed in their activities. They are safe, content, busy and having fun.

Creativity and originality are plentiful at Kaleidoscope.  The staff is wonderful to watch and listen to while they interact and teach by doing, interacting and connecting.  This children’s place and space of Kaleidoscope here on Orcas brings us full circle in reminding us that we were all children once upon a time.

Inspired by our experiences, Kaleidoscope is ready to formalize a Volunteer Program.  Whether you are interested in rocking babies, reading stories, digging in the sandbox, playing legos or sharing a delicious, nutritious meal, Kaleidoscope is the place for you-young and young at heart!  Call Amber Paulsen at 376-2484 to get more information about how this might fit for you.

She is looking to do a Volunteer Orientation in early June so we can start making community connections for the summer.  You’ll be amazed at how one visit leaves you wanting more!

Hope to see you there!

Mary Ann Slabaugh

Orcas Island