One of the biggest perks of homeschooling children is the freedom of taking learning to an entirely different level. Working in public education, there are so many hoops to jump through to take kids somewhere that is FREE. It almost isn’t even worth it. However, when you can plan virtual field trips or authentic field trips for your children or just a handful in a homeschooling group, almost anything is possible. If you are new to this field trip planning stuff, we have certainly got you covered! Here, we have put together a few tips and tricks on planning a homeschool field trip so it can go as smoothly as possible.
Steps to Plan the Trip
Figure Out Where You Want to Go!
While this may seem like the most basic first step, sometimes, it can be the hardest step in planning field trips. Think about what curriculum you are covering and try to choose something that will enhance their learning experience. You want your homeschooling field trip to be educational and fun.
Call Ahead
Once you have the place picked, it is time to figure out if there is a cost associated with your visit or, with all of the new Covid restrictions, if where you are visiting can accommodate the size of your group. The best way to figure out if wherever you are visiting can accommodate your group is to give them a call. Of course, this step will likely not be necessary if you visit a public park.
What Stuff Do You Need to Bring?
After you have made your reservation or reserved spots or tickets, it is time to consider all the other pieces! Consider how long your trip will take, whether or not you need to pack lunches, and be aware of the needs associated with the school year. For example, if this is an outdoor spring or summer trip, you may want to bring sunscreen and extra drinks for your homeschoolers.
Ideas for Homeschool Field Trips
As the United States slowly re-opens doors, more opportunities for fantastic field trips begin to open again. The great state of New York has endless options for local field trips and a ton of fun. For a list of some of the best places to visit for your next field trip, check out our article on the top 10 field trips in NY. And if you don’t feel like going anywhere, consider a virtual field trip for your child. Plenty of virtual tours are created by museums, zoos, and other organizations.
Final Thoughts
One of the best things about homeschool field trips is that you experience learning with the whole family. Taking fantastic field trips that are local and letting your child know and explore is extremely valuable to their education. Likely, field trips will be one of the most exciting things your child(ten) experiences throughout the entire year of learning. With that said, don’t be so worried about all of the logistics of everything; enjoy the “wow” face on your child and make every moment a teachable one.
