Kudos to the Children's Musem

Yesterday was field trip day. And Ms. S' return. Oh what a joyful day it was.



Right before December vacation, the AP came into my classroom in a frenzy. There was a bus outside and the driver had my name listed as the contact person. We had not booked a trip. Turns out that I had applied for a program at the Children's Museum but didn't get in. They apparently had some cancellations and had space for all of us, but I never received any communication from them. My AP said that we legally could not go without permission slips. I felt terrible since this trip was completely paid for by the museum, but I understand where she is coming from as well. It does make me wonder about the idea of a "universal permission slip" that is good for the whole school year.



Later that same day, I wrote a letter to Caroline at the museum. I explained the situation and apologized for the miscommunication. She was very understanding and willing to work with us. So, the trip was rescheduled. Through several email exchanges, we managed to work out all of the details. I was so grateful for her willingness to work with us. The children always enjoy the trip to the children's museum and it is a lot less stressful when their parents are not responsible for paying anything.

So off we went. We arrived exactly on time, despite some nasty traffic on the highway. When we arrived, we found the group entrance locked and after ringing the bell several times, I started to feel a little nervous. Did I make a mistake about the date? Did I miss something in our directions? Anyway, my jitters were quickly cast aside when the doors were open and everyone was greeted by smiling staff faces. They quickly handled logistical things like where to put our coats and ushered the children to the rug. They quickly and thoroughly explained the rules then it was off to the gigantic climber.

What a great idea! The kids are so excited and have a lot of energy simply because of the trip. So what a great way to start, by giving the kids an opportunity to release some of their natural energy before moving on to more structured activities. Much to my surprise, the staff took initiative when it was time to get everyone out. Also, we had the opportunity to use the climber before the museum was open to the general public, which was also wonderful planning on their part. They divided us up by class and my group was off to boats and currents.

After a short presentation on what a current is, the children had a chance to move several things using the jets to direct the currents. The staff at the children's museum did a wonderful job of keeping track of time and the overall managerial stuff so that the teachers could focus on teaching, on supporting the students in their explorations. Before I even realized it, it was time to direct the kids went over to another oversized water table to do experiments around sinking and floating. Each activity was just long enough to include a short demonstration, an opportunity for the students to make predictions and explore and a quick review/ discussion. Time is important and knowing how to manage it is very valuable. Young children have short attention spans so cant stay with any one thing too long, but also need opportunities to practice and explore. The staff struck the balance perfectly!

Then we were off to the great bubble lab. The students were excited after the demonstration and eager to try to make the biggest bubble they could. I knew my students would not want to leave the lab, but the wonderful staff anticipated that too. When it was time for us to leave, they gathered the children and told them that they would learn a dance. The "dance" was an elaborate way to shake off and dry their hands, but it worked and everyone transitioned out of the lab successfully.

Finally, it was off to the musical "balancing act" which talked about living a healthy lifestyle by eating more fruits and veggies, more whole grains, getting more exercise and more sleep. The students had several opportunities to participate and wear awesome costumes on stage. Then it was back on the bus and back to school for lunch and a much needed rest.

The museum also gave each student a family pass so they can go back with their families for free. In addition to providing the teachers with a great resource book and the sound track from the musical. Amazing generosity. A wonderful learning experience for all of the students. Perfectly organized. A job well done!