For those of us who grew up with loving and supportive grandparents, it’s always important to take time out of our busy lives to shower them with the support and love they have provided us.

On Sept. 4, Salt River Schools held a special Grandparents’ Day celebration at the Early Childhood Education Center’s Gathering Place. Vendor booths lined the outdoor ramada area as families and their loved ones visited with vendors and each another.

Free Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community tote bags in a wide array of colors were provided to all, as well as costume animal masks for the tiny kiddos and adults wanting to participate in the fun festivities.

Inside the Gathering Place, ECEC staff provided a meal consisting of squash with cheese and fresh cemait/modilly. Additionally, there was an official “Happy Grandparents’ Day” banner as a backdrop for families to pose for photos inside the Gathering Place.

The celebration also featured O’odham/Piipaash bingo for various prizes and toys.

Poetically enough, the celebration was held on the same day as ECEC’s Superhero Day—proving that, in some cases, our grandparents can be our own version of superheroes.