One of the best perks of homeschooling is you can use the local places around you as field trips! It is an easy and often free way to explore, learn, drive curiosity and teach.
Several weeks ago I wanted to go get some fresh honey from the honey store. Instead of just running in real quick and leaving the kids at home, I turned the trip into a learning opportunity. I had all the kids come with me and blocked out some time in our day to go into the store, look around, and ask questions! Ahead of going I had actually emailed them and asked if they could do tours, but its not something they do.
However, the cashier was so accommodating and willing to answer all our questions. And the great thing about kids asking questions is that once the wheels start turning, the questions just keep coming! We learned so many things about bees and honey that day. And it was way more fun than reading it from a book.
I think so often we get wrapped up in the idea of a formal curriculum. Where we are checking the boxes and having the kids complete worksheets. We feel like we need a whole unit, study one subject for weeks on end. While there isn’t anything wrong with this approach, it isn’t the only way to learn!
Yes, school can be one off places to visit. Remember, the whole goal of schooling our children is to teach them to learn, to love learning, and that their environment is full of opportunity to learn! Memorized facts will only take them so far in life…like 12th grade.
If you are looking to change up your homeschool routine try taking note of the places near you that will provide a learning opportunity for your kids! It could also be worth getting a group of homeschoolers together.
Here are some ideas:
Stores that specialize in something specific- gardening, honey, electronics, candy, print shop, etc.
Email or call and ask if businesses do tours! – We’ve toured walmart before and it was actually quite interesting
Local first responders
Local museum & art centers
Explore new parks in the area
Ask friends who own businesses for tours or a career day type visit
Ask your kids what they want to learn! Then search for businesses or places that could help them learn about this subject.
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