By Joanna Miller, Correspondent

Parker Baines may be small, but this tiny PTC Carnival volunteer was a huge help to his mom Gale when planning for the April 19 event.

The 3-year-old from Savage visited WestWood Elementary in Prior Lake to help his mom at organizational sessions.

With his big smile and quiet voice, Parker won over school office staff members and carnival volunteers during regular visits.

Ticket organizing was Parker’s main duty when he tagged along with his mom, but his enthusiasm for the carnival also was encouraging.Parker Baines, 3, of Savage was one
of the youngest volunteers for the
PTC Carnival this year.
(Photo by Joanna Miller)

Parker said he also helped “clean up,” and that the best part of the carnival was that “Daddy comes” to the big day.

“I like to go to the carnival,” he said. This year, Parker looked forward to attending the event with his dad, Jody, and siblings while his mom volunteered.

“I want to put money in – I like doing that and buying tickets,” he said of the games.

When he’s not helping out the carnival volunteers, Parker spends time at home with his brother Connor, 10, and sister Amberlyn, 15.

He said he likes when his sister babysits him, and he looks forward to spending time with his brother and dad, playing with a train set.

“He builds the tracks, and Daddy builds it, too,” Parker said. “Connor helps me.”

He also enjoys playing with the family dogs, Sophie and Gina.

How does Parker kick off a busy day?

“We have waffles,” he said.

Parker likes to stick to traditional breakfast foods and noted that he prefers regular oatmeal over fancy kinds with dinosaurs or sprinkles.

“I like a different oatmeal,” he explained, “…and Pez candy.”

Q and A with

Parker Baines

What your favorite toy?

It’s a cell phone.

Who do you call?

Daddy.

Have you ever been on vacation? Where did you go?

On a big ship [for a Disney cruise.]

What was your favorite thing on the ship?

I had my backpack.

What was the most fun thing you did on the ship?

Seeing Mickey Mouse and Donald and Daisy [Duck].

What’s your favorite song?

The ABCs,  “I Love You,” and “The Bee Movie” song.

What’s your favorite movie?

 “The Bee Movie.” I watched it at Uncle Gary’s house, and “Thomas the Train” ‘cause I watch it on TV. I love Thomas the Train.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Like [my brother] Connor.

What’s your favorite food?

Meatballs.

What’s the best part about spring?

I can ride the car outside and play toys.

 Joanna Miller can be reached at (952) 345-6375 or jmiller@swpub.com.