Field Trip Ideas for Toddlers

When taking toddlers on a field trip, the key to success is to make the trip short and work around meal and nap times. No matter how fun the destination is, toddlers won't enjoy it, and will make sure everyone knows that, if they are tired or hungry. Choose field trip destinations where the children will be able to wander around and explore. Too many rules and restrictions will only lead to frustration.

  1. Nature

    • Toddlers enjoy getting outside and exploring, so plan a trip to a farm or the zoo, or go on a forest walk. Don't plan to cover a whole lot of ground. The kids may be happy to spend the entire time at the farm looking at the chickens, or wander around one pond in the forest. Go with their interests and introduce them to different types of experiences. Help them pet the animals at the farm, or put their hands in the water in the park.

    Community

    • Tour a fire hall, the post office or the police station. Call ahead to arrange it, and be prepared to reschedule if necessary. At this stage, the children will want to get on the fire truck or hear the police siren. Toddlers could also visit a local library for storytime, or even take balloons or small gifts to a seniors home to cheer up the residents. All of these outings will introduce children to places and people in their communities.

    Seasonal Activities

    • Choose seasonal outings so toddlers can learn to relate the time of year to what is happening around them. Try going apple picking in the fall, going on a sleigh ride in the winter or picking strawberries in early summer. Activities related to holidays are also good choices, since they will be able to relate the activity to things they've heard when their parents read books to them or they've seen on TV. Try out a community Easter egg hunt at Easter or check out a Santa Claus parade before Christmas.

    The Arts

    • Find a high school that puts on plays for children and take toddlers there, or go to a professional company. Art galleries, libraries and museums often have children's programs, but make sure they are interactive and designed for this age group. Toddlers want to experience and touch everything, which is not appropriate in parts of an art gallery or museum. You can also try a planetarium or science center for an interesting experience.

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