It is recommended that homeschooling families schedule at least five field trips over the course of the school year. This is equivalent to one field trip every other month, because the school year consists of ten months (September through June).
1. Hay ride, pumpkin carving, corn maze: Take the first field trip in September or October when the leaves begin to fall off of the trees and pumpkins are being harvested and widely sold. Many farmers offer hay rides to the farm's pumpkin patch. Children are allowed to get off of the ride for about ten minutes and pick a pumpkin to take home. Another consideration is to go to a corn or hay maze. These are also offered in the fall and provide great mental exercises to get children to utilize their problem solving skills. These events usually cost about $5 per person.
2. Visit a museum or an aquarium: Take the second field trip between November and December. It will begin to get too cold for outdoor activities, which makes it a great time to visit a museum or an aquarium. The museum should be one that provides historical or scientific content. We live near the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, where they offer many hands on science experiences for the kids. There are also shows in the planetarium that have children feel like they are in space. Experiencing science or history hands on is a great way for children to develop a love for the subject.
3. Go to the movies: Let's face it, January and February are the coldest months of the year. You have to do something inside. There is nothing better than going to the movies and getting some popcorn and soda. There is almost always at least one family flick available to be seen. Search ahead online for the time and to find release dates. To make it an educational trip, read the story of the movie prior to going to see it. For example, The Polar Express comes out on the IMax during the Christmas season. Read the book prior to going to the movie and compare and contrast the two. Try to make the movie choice related to a theme that the children are learning.
4. Visit your local zoo: Since the fourth field trip occurs during Spring, in either March or April, plan a trip to the zoo. Encourage students to identify the animals and tell you the classification of each animal. If the child is not familiar with that animal, then show him or her where to find the information. Zoo personnel usually post a plaque near the cage with information about the animal, such as the animal's native home.
5. Visit an amusement park: The last field trip of the year should be one of a celebration for another year finished. This field trip would occur in May or June when it is warm again. You may have to drive to a theme park, but it is well worth it. We have a Great Adventure and a Sesame Place within driving distance. The kids love visiting these theme parks.
