Field Trip Ideas

Neighborhood Search

  • Take a walk around the school's neighborhood. Before you go, discuss with children the buildings, stores, parks, signs, etc. they see in the neighborhood on their way to school. Make a list of those items on chart paper. Tell children they will search for each of the items on the list.
  • As you walk, stop periodically so children can look around. Remind them of items on the list, prompting them if necessary. Children should shout out when they see one of the items. Check off each item as it is called out. Take photos, if possible.
  • When you return to the classroom, review the list. Ask children to describe each item they saw. Have each child draw one item (there may be duplicates) and then display the list and the drawings.

Meet a Neighbor

  • Have children name businesses, stores, and police/fire stations in the school's neighborhood. If you did the Neighborhood Search, there may be items on that list. Choose a place to visit, either the most popular choice from children or by writing the options on slips of paper and having a drawing.
  • Discuss the chosen location with children, talk about people they may meet, and describe the location. Set up your visit in advance.
  • Before going, prompt questions children would like to ask when they visit. Make a list of the questions.
  • During the visit, ask questions from the children's list and record responses. Children may have other questions. Ask the owner/proprietor to add other information.
  • Following the visit, discuss children's memories and the responses to their questions. Have children dictate a thank-you note. Children can draw on the note or draw separate pictures to enclose with it. If possible, have the children go with you to mail the note.