Little tykes in costumes brightened the day for residents of several senior care facilities in Sidney on Friday, July 11, during the annual "Parade of Wheels."
The parade, featuring children riding decorated bicycles and wagons, wound its way through the sidewalks, bringing smiles and waves to those watching.
The participants were students from Positive Path Early Learning, a child care centre located at 2269 Mills Rd.
The family-owned business, operated by sisters Joanne and Wendy Abbot, has been dedicated to fostering the growth and development of children since 2012.
Parade of Wheels is a long-standing tradition, deeply rooted in the Abbot sisters' childhood.
“This parade has been going on for many years,” explained Joanna Abbot. “My sister and I used to do it as young children and we just thought, we wanted to bring it to our childcare centre. It's been a wonderful addition to our summer program and to the community.”
This year's parade saw nearly 30 decorated "wheels" in motion, supported by a large contingent of family, friends and even alumni sporting blue sashes.
The route included stops at Sidney All Care Residence, Broadmead Resthaven Lodge, Amica at Beechwood and the Shoal Centre.
Leah Emerson, a Saanichton resident, beamed as she watched her children, four-year-old Jack and two-year-old Charlotte, participate in the parade.
“The kids love being involved in decorating their bikes,” Emerson said. “They wash them, got them ready for today, and now they get to show them off to the families and the seniors.”
Megan Docouto-Palamar, a longtime employee of Positive Path Early Learning, emphasized the importance of the parade.
“Parade of wheels is just a way to have an intergenerational connection,” she said. “Keeping everybody together and making sure that everybody stays connected, no matter the age and no matter where they come from.”
