Depending on your class, a field trip can be exciting or as source of dread for you and your team. Today we went to the World of Wonder Science Museum! It is a fun children’s museum that allows your students to explore different science experiments on their own time.
We ended up having a Sub Para as well as 2 students with significant behaviors today. Luckily we had two students out sick so our ratios were not too skewed. I’m happy to report it ended up being a great time! Here are some tips to make any trip go a little smoother.
Prep your kids!
Even with more well behaved kiddos, a field trip can seriously throw off anyone’s day. A lot of behaviors can stem from simply not knowing what is going on! A simple printed out schedule detailing the changes in the day or a social story for the child to read multiple times before the trip can prepare your student for changes.
Use what works!
It may be a little more work and a little more stuff to bring, but if something works in the classroom, bring it on your trip! For example, if the I-PAD can solve a meltdown or reinforce getting off the bus, no reason not to pack it in your bag. If a First-Then Schedule works for transitions, bring it with you!
Pick a Better Time
If you know that the place you are going has a slow time, try to schedule your trip for that time! The less people, the less likely a student is going to have a disruptive behavior involving someone else. Especially with behaviors that may hurt others. Some venues may even open early for your group- ASK!
If Money is an Issue:
If money is an issue for some of your parents, there may be options for you! Some school districts allow you to apply for Student Body Funds to pay for fun field trips. You may even be able to write to your Board to ask for donations, but if you try to keep the field trip cheap and give parents enough time to prepare you are more likely to get full participation and avoid paying out of pocket!
Try for Sensory Friendly:
We chose this museum because you DON’T need to be quiet, you can run around, and be messy! There is no loud music playing and the lights are dimmer. Try to schedule a trip in a place that allows your students to have a little fun and be on their own! If you ask, some places will dim the lights or turn down music for you! We were able to go bowling last year with a dim and quieter environment during off peak hours.
Don’t aim for perfection:
Things will go wrong. Behaviors will happen. If you prepare for the worst, you may end up pleasantly surprised. I’m happy to report that the worst thing that happened to us was a few drops to the ground and a student grabbing a random teacher’s Whistle on her landyard and trying to blow it (a bit embarrassing but hey, it happens! He Loves whistles!). Feel comfortable explaining your students, you don’t need to defend yourself or them! At the end of the day, try to have fun! That’s what the field trips are for!