As part of our transportation theme we built our very own West Jet terminal in the imaginary play area. Not only is it amazing (thanks to Sarah in speech for all her hard work putting it together!), but it's super functional and a lot of fun for the kiddos!
To start, pick a role, are you going to be a pilot or jet-setting off to Mexico for a tropical vacation. We have costumes for the flight crew and suitcases for the passengers to pack full of sun glasses, swimsuits, and souvenirs.
Once you arrive you need to check in at the West Jet desk. We're doing things a little out of order and practicing handing over our passports to get them stamped at this check point. There are some fake tickets and boarding passes to be handed out here as well.
Next step is the baggage drop. Just like at YYC we have a scanning area for the suitcases to go through. You never know what these kids might sneak into their pockets or bags.
Then it's through the security gate and into the waiting area.
Our pretend airplane sits 4 passengers as well as a pilot and co-pilot. A West Jet employee was nice enough to donate some barf bags and emergency procedure directions, you can find those located on the back of the seat in front of you.
For our kids this is a great opportunity to go through the different steps that are involved in travel. Some of our kiddos are very familiar with the airport and others have never been so imaginary play is a great way to practice old skills and learn new ones. Needless to say, this airport set-up is a huge hit with the little ones. On the first morning we had one kiddo take off to Mexico 3 times before lunch!
Wow. Wow! I have to thank you – for your hard work, dedication, commitment to the kids and creativity. This is absolutely AMAZING. Marek has been sick and not able to go this week but this would have been great for him. We flew to Vancouver last November and I had to try and make one of these at home – it did NOT look as good as yours. We had all the components of an airport as part of his image schedule and the trip went really well. He knew what the security check was, baggage drop off, check in counter, etc. And he LOVED being on the plane. This really helps kids get exposure to the real world and become comfortable. I could not be more grateful!!! Ula
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