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Plan a Family Field Trip

October is National Field Trip Month

By Melissa Hucal September 30, 2014
Whether it's to apply newly gained knowledge (did you know that children learn 85 percent more when a lesson is reinforced outside the classroom?), discover something interesting that you didn't know before or just experience something you might not otherwise have the opportunity to, field trips are a great way to incorporate a little fun into the learning experience.

But field trips needn't be limited to school trips.

October is National Field Trip Month and your family can get involved by planning a few local adventures. 

Our goal with Macaroni Kid is to always provide you with a calendar full of events and activities that will make every day a field trip for your family, but we've also got a few ideas for you to explore on your own.

The great outdoors
Take the "field" part of the trip literally as you hike local trails, go on a nature walk in your own backyard or visit a nearby working farm. 

Experience the arts and sciences
Art galleries, museums and planetariums create experiences that are new to many. Take in the show that you may have skipped on a previous visit or try your hand at a hands-on arts studio (pottery, painting, etc.).

When I grow up
Plan a "job shadow" field trip where you and your child can spend a little time with a person who holds an occupation your child is interested in. Learn a little about a typical day and what you need to know to do the job.

Getting there is half the fun
Make the transportation the field trip! If you usually use your car to get you from point A to point B, consider taking the train or a cab or a subway to a neighboring city or town. Near a river? How about a boat?

What's behind the curtain?
Ever wondered what it really takes to get a movie ready to play at the theater? Or how the ice cream shop gets all those cones ready for a big rush? If asked, many businesses will provide a "behind the scenes" peak at what really happens when the general public isn't watching.

Now it's your turn!
What other ideas can you come up with to create a great Family Field Trip? Use the comment feature below and let us know!