Monthly News and Updates from IdahoSTARS

Summer is field trip season! Whether you're loading up the van for a trip to the local library, spending the day at the zoo, visiting a neighborhood park, or simply taking a walk through your community, field trips provide children with opportunities to experience the world in new ways. They build connections, create memories, and often become the stories children tell long after the day is over. 

Great field trips don't happen by accident. They happen because providers take the time to plan ahead.

• Scope out your location-review maps for restrooms, lunch areas, shady rest spots, places to meet.
• Increase supervision when possible- if budget allows increase your staff to child ratio for the day or invite parent volunteers to participate.
• Group children and assign adults to each small group, and use a buddy system for children.
• Use matching clothing to quickly identify children, bright colors or your logo on a t-shirt will help you pick your children out in a crowd. Avoid using nametags.
• Prepare children ahead of time by taking a pretend trip around the classroom identifying expectations.

Field Trip Packing Checklist

• Current permission slips and emergency contacts  
• First aid kit  
• Medications and allergy information  
• Water, snacks, and lunches  
• Sunscreen  
• Extra wipes and tissues  
• Bright matching shirts  
• Magnifying glasses  
• Paper, crayons, or clipboards  
• A sense of adventure! 

The best field trips balance preparation, supervision, and flexibility. When we thoughtfully plan for safety and organization, we create the freedom to focus on what matters most—helping children explore their world, follow their curiosity, and create memories that will last long after the trip is over.