Talking RV to a Kindergarten Class

DeltaRomeo · #1 02-13-2007, 06:17 PM

So the yoga instructor said to me the other day, "Why don't you talk to Tate's kindergarten class about your airplane?" Idea planted. I met with the teacher this morning before class and brought a picture of Flash. Her first question was, "Would it be possible for you to talk to all the classes at once (80 kids)?" Sure! She's going to get back to me with a date/time for the talk, then I'm hoping to do a flyover the next day at a predetermined time - I'll give her my handheld radio and hold over the lake until she calls me in. She wants to coordinate with the principal to make sure it isn't conflicting with anything, but this could turn into a bigger deal than we envisioned to begin with (isn't this always the case <g>).
I want to make a good impression with the kids, especially my son's friends! I also have a sneaking feeling that I will get the chance to do this with every kindergarten class from here on out, so I want to make sure I touch all the right bullet points: safety, learning math, paying attention, etc.
My question: Is there a syllabus for a speech like this already compiled by another member (VAF, EAA, AOPA) that I can use as a start. I'm also thinking about contacting a local reporter (stories) so I can use this as an example of a positive GA story. I'll have a Powerpoint presentation on the laptop showing construction photos, photos from the air and all that. Real classy like.
What a wonderful opportunity. How many times does your Dad bring an airplane to 'Show and Tell'? Tate's sort of excited, but he thinks all families have an airplane. ;^)

Best always,
Doug

cytoxin · #2 02-13-2007, 06:32 PM

make it short and sweet. careful on answering questions. dont be distracted by the number that arent interested. focus on those that are. did you say 80

. may the force be with you.

DeltaRomeo · #3 02-13-2007, 06:37 PM

Those are the thoughts I've been having also. Maybe I'll just bring my acoustic and sing the SpongeBob Squarepants song <g>

cytoxin · #4 02-13-2007, 06:48 PM

that will get you hero status.

Special Delivery · #5 02-13-2007, 07:30 PM

I have the same opportunity and would appreciate the benefit of your experience and resources. Children keep us young and inventive! What about the possibility of taking your show on the road?

wbpflyer · #6 02-13-2007, 07:32 PM

Doug,

AOPA has a handbook titled "PATH to Aviation" pilot and teacher handbook. It is probably down loadable...however, I e-mailed AOPA to send me one. Its principal message is how to bring Aviation to America's Secondary Schools Students.

If it is not down loadable let me know and I'll let you borrow my copy.

Bill Pappas

sirlegin · #7 02-13-2007, 07:49 PM

What a great opportunity. I only wish I had been building my RV when my kids were younger. Good for you!!
From what I remember at that age, #1 priority is to make it both funny and exciting. This accomplished and you are guaranteed 100% attention levels from all, at which point you can influence to your hearts content for the continuance and betterment of GA and especially RV's.

Ironflight · #8 02-13-2007, 08:05 PM

Hey Doug, welcome to the world of "doing PR's" as we call it....

When I get the privilege of talking to the very young, I usually find that:

1) The ones that will ask questions will all ask them simultaneously. Don't let it snow you. Stay focused - pick one and answer. The noise will continue. Pick another and answer. It's like wading through a pool of guppies...

2) They will ask questions you have never thought of. "Can I take my pet flying?" "What happens if you fall out?" They got questions, you got answers....

3) As soon as you point at one child who has their hand raised, they will begin telling you a long story about their goldfish....there is supposed to be a question at the end of the story, but sometimes, there isn't. I like the multiple questions at once problem better....pick the ones you want!

You think I'm kidding? I am....but I'm not! That's what makes it fun. Hope you survive.

Paul

rodeomanny · #9 02-13-2007, 08:12 PM

I just did a brief flyby and show and tell for 80 kindergarten kids last week at Fabens, a small airport (E35) near El Paso, after a teacher friend casually asked if I'd show the kids my plane (RV6A). THe FBO keyed the radio as I did a couple of high speed low passes so I could hear the kids scream and applaud. I got as big a thrill out of it as the kids did. Afterwards, we lined the kids up behind each wing and lifted them up on the wings to take a quick peek in the cockpit. I'll never forget the wide eyes and breathless expressions on their faces. I even got asked for a few autographs! THe word is already out throughout the school district and I'm afraid I'll have to repeat the experience... dagnabbit!! You'll really enjoy it, Doug.

DeltaRomeo · #10 02-13-2007, 08:15 PM

If I'm getting the gist of this, Paul, I should:

1. Show Rudy's construction video on the big screen

2. Put on my SpongeBob Squarepants costume while they are watching it.

3. Pour a bucket of water over my head and run out the door.

This is gonna be fun. I think I'll see if I can do smaller groups - maybe I'll go to each class separately. Next day flyover around 0830 - maybe a formation pass with some of the usual suspects.

Tate asked if I could throw candy out on the flyover.

That kid is awesome .