If general education classes get to go on field trips, then yes, special education classes get to as well! Figuring out how to manage a field trip for a special needs class can be overwhelming and maybe even scary to think about. Here in this blog you will find 4 different tips to help you better prepare and feel confident heading into your field trip!
Field trip tip 1: Parent Involvement
One of the first things I do when beginning to think about / planning for a field is reach out to parents. Due to the different and individual needs of the students in our class, it is imperative to try and get as many parent volunteers as you can. At the beginning of the year, I like to send home a flyer letting parents know that field trips are something I will be planning for the year. In that flyer, I will ask any parents are willing / able to accompany their child on any upcoming field trips for the year. I like to do this at the beginning of the year so I can have a head count of parents who are able to attend before I even begin to plan for a field trip.
Once the field is about 1-2 months out, I will then send out another form with all the details. See the picture above. In this form I will ask if the child will be attending, if the parent will be attending, if the child will need a school lunch, and if the child will be riding the bus. This allows me enough time to get parents the volunteer forms. As well as, let the cafeteria know how many lunches we will need. Along with, telling the transportation department know our headcount.
Tip 2: Social Stories
Before every field trip, I will read a social story that is based on the location of the field trip. This helps prepare my class ahead of time. As you can see in this photo, I created a social story for the zoo!
For some students, riding the bus can be new and exciting! I always like to include bus expectations and rules in my social story as well.
After we review transportation rules and expectations, I will review the rules that are specific to our field trip location.
Tip 3: Task Analysis
As we know, change in our daily routine, can be really challenging for our students. For my students who have an exceptionally hard time with change, I will create them a task analysis. In the task analysis, I will have each step of the transition process for the student to check off. I will review this checklist with the student for the few days leading up to the field trip. I will then bring it with them when heading to our field trip.
Tip 4: Backpack
Last but not least, I always bring my field trip backpack! Having supplies quick and handy is a must when trying to manage a field trip for a special needs class. Inside my backpack I have all of my visuals and behavior supports, extra snacks, water, a bag of fidgets, a first aid kit, and all my paperwork. Paper work includes: permission slips, bus roster, check out sheet. Here you can find a package of 60 fidgets from amazon!
With the right management tools and proper planning, field trips with a special needs class can be successful! It is a great way to make memories with your students, staff, and parents. For more information on planning field trips, check out this blog here!
