Life as a child on the frontier of a new country was not always carefree or easy.  The Preston children, their cousins, and the children of the plantation laborers learned at an early age to help with household chores.  As interpreters of these children, participants in the program learn about gardening, cooking, sewing, and other skills that were critical to survival at the edge of the wilderness.

Life was not all hard work, however.  The Preston family loved to entertain guests and valued visits from distant family members.  Music and games provided a welcome diversion from chores and business concerns.  Children played active games such as hoop and stick and tag when the weather was nice.  Indoor games such as cards, ball and pins, and whirligig helped to pass cold and wet winter days.

As members of the Smithfield Kids and Junior Interpreters Programs, children discover what life might have been like before television, computers, and video games.  The Program provides an opportunity to learn the history, self-sufficiency, manners, and skills of yesterday that can help children face the challenges of tomorrow.  At this time, the program is focusing on encouraging children to participate in special events that are scheduled throughout Historic Smithfield's operating season.

The Smithfield Kids and Junior Interpreters Programs welcome children at least seven years of age who wish to learn about the rich history of Western Virginia and who are willing to commit time and energy to sharing this knowledge with visitors to Historic Smithfield.