Top 10 Field Trips This Summer

June 8, 2018
Written by:
Tasha Swearingen
Summer and Travel

School’s out – now what? Homeschool field trips, of course! Remember those places you talked about wanting to visit during the school year but somehow never had the time to actually see? Summer is a perfect time to play field trip catch up! If you’re stumped as to field trip ideas, let us give you a few great ideas!

  1. Manufacturing Facility – This can include any warehouse or factory you think might interest your students. If you’re looking at factories, consider going somewhere they manufacture the things your students like – such as a toy factory or car manufacturing plant.
  2. Farm – Whether it’s a specialty farm or just a “regular” farm, your students are sure to enjoy an up-close visit with animals! Farms are especially appealing to younger students but the work involved in running one may pique their interest, too. The summer is considered the planting and growing season for many farms so plan with this in mind if you’d like to visit over the summer.
  3. State/national park – First, help your students learn more about the natural plants and animals in your Summer field trips are a perfect complement to your homeschool! state, especially those that are local to you. Then, take them on an adventure to a state or national park. If you have time, you can pop into the library before going and borrow a quick field guide to help you identify the things you’re likely to come across on this outing.
  4. Museum – While this may not seem like something unique to summer, many museums offer special summer programs while students aren’t in school. Some offer overnight options for field trips as well. Just check with your local museums and see what they have to offer!
  5. Water park/splash pad – Of course, what would a summer be without at least one trip to the local water park or splash pad. This is especially true for those who are landlocked and unable to get to the beach on a regular basis. Some splash pads and water parks offer reduced rates during certain days or hours of summer.
  6. Scavenger Hunt – This one is fun if you can get together with friends who are willing to turn this into a summer field trip for the children involved. Choose a park or secluded location, lay out your clues and objects, and send the children on a hunt!
  7. Veterinarian’s Office – Your students may be amazed at just how much work it takes to become a vet and in what the day-to-day life of a vet is like. Contact your local vet’s office and ask if they’re willing to provide a small tour for your family. It may help if you contact your personal vet to ask.
  8. Bank or credit union – A trip to the local bank can teach your children valuable lessons about finance, savings, and credit. If your children don’t already have a savings or checking account, this could also be a great time to open one. Too far from a bank? Consider a “virtual financial field trip” using your at-home financial software. Let your children play around with the program and learn how you keep an eye on your finances.
  9. This summer, indulge in field trips with your kids! Zoo – The zoo is a great place to head to this summer! Kids can learn about animals of all types, from land animals and large reptiles to amphibians and very large mammals.  In addition, zoos often have additional programs kids can participate in to study specific animals or habitats.
  10. Local bakery – For this, you can visit a chain bakery or a small, local “mom and pop” bakery. You’ll probably receive more personalized attention at the mom-and-pop bakery, but large chains often have specific things set up for field trips. In either case, we’re pretty sure you’ll have a mouth-watering good time!

Summer is a fantastic time to take field trips. There is no school schedule in the way, and the available places are truly endless. You can still stay on top of your learning as well with easy-to-implement online homeschooling. This summer, take your students on an outing you’re sure to remember!

#FIELD TRIPS, #SUMMER LEARNING

Tasha Swearingen

Tasha is a homeschooling mom to 5 and has been homeschooling for 14 years. Currently, her children's ages span from toddler to young adult. Tasha has a Bachelor's of Science degree in Social Sciences from Florida State University and is working on her MBA through SNHU/Berklee School of Music.