Homeschooling Field Trips

Homeschooling field trips are my favorite part of educating at home. They provide us with much needed breaks from our daily routine, and I love watching my children learn and enjoy new experiences.

Some field trips offer behind the scenes looks at an everyday place, such as the post office, bank, bakery, hospital, ice cream shop, grocery store, library, fire station or police station. You may even simply take a train or bus ride.

Museums, theaters, symphonies, aquariums, planetariums, courthouses, farms, orchards, lakes, animal shelters, bowling alleys, newspaper offices, radio/television stations, water treatment plants, power plants, and zoos also offer educational opportunities. Local magazines are great resources to find field trip destinations.

Because of concerns about homeschooling and socialization, some homeschoolers over schedule outside activities. This can be expensive, and leads to burn out, restlessness, and neglect of school and household duties. If you find yourself yelling, “stop reading and put your shoes on so we can go have fun,” you may be involved in too many homeschooling activities.

How to Prepare for Homeschool Field Trips

• Decide if you will go alone or with homeschooling support groups. My children typically learn more when we go alone as a family.

• Check the hours of operation for the day you plan to visit. Ask about parking arrangements, and get directions and a map, if necessary. If you have young children, find out if strollers are allowed.

• If the homeschooling field trip is a group outing, ask if there is a limit to the number of adults and children who can attend. Find out if a deposit is required, and whether attendees can pay individually or in a lump sum. Don’t forget to RSVP.

• Make sure the subject matter and field trip length are age appropriate for your children. Talk to your children about rules and expected behavior. Try to avoid scheduling outings that interfere with mealtimes or naps. I sometimes leave my toddler at home for some one on one time with Grandma.

• Pack all necessary supplies, bring extra cash and make sure you have a full tank of gas. Here’s a free, printable field trip checklist to help you plan your outing.

Next, look at tips to help your child learn on homeschool field trips.