Are you getting ready to explore the idea of field trips? Here are some tips that I have learned over the years with little ones.
Be flexible. It is fine to aim for a certain number of activities, but flexibility will allow everyone to enjoy the trip more. Be prepared to go home when the little ones are tired, to stop for diaper changes, to skip an activity or attraction in order to spend more time at the previous one.
Bring snacks. Having some refreshing snacks available is so important. Many times on a field trip, toddlers and preschoolers are too busy exploring to stop to eat. Pop a couple of snacks into them while they are sitting in the stroller and you are walking from one area to the other. Make sure to bring extras for any friends who come along. The other members of your party might have forgotten to bring snacks, or your snacks might be particularly popular. I add a cooling pack to a lunch bag. Some good ideas for snacks include:
- Raisins
- Apple slices (dip them in lemon juice to keep them fresh and from browning)
- Cut grapes
- Crackers
- Pretzels
- Granola bars
- Tube yogurt
- String cheese
Invite friends. A hesitant child may explore if they see a trusted friend doing so. Plus the interaction among the kids is priceless. They really can learn from each other, practice socialization and have more fun when peers are around.
Start small, or at least local. Visit a local attraction that is near your home. Not only will it guarantee a short car trip, but you are more likely to go back to something local if your child showed an interest in it. Plus, going to a local attraction takes the pressure off of you to try to “do everything” in a day.
Limit your field trip to about two hours or less. With older children, you may be able to go a little longer, but you want to end the trip before the children get too tired, overwhelmed or bored. Field trips should be positive experiences. Some children shut down when they are overwhelmed, while others tend to whine, cry and scream.
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