Field Trip Fun: Sensory-Friendly Tips

Here is how to make field trips safe, sensory-friendly, and fun.

By Cory Morrison

Excitement, learning, and sensory wonder are probably the first things that come to mind when looking back on childhood field trips. These excursions exist so education and fun memories can easily blend together.

It’s also easier for children to connect class lessons to the real world when taken beyond a plain textbook.

While many field trips usually went well for me, I know that isn’t always true for many individuals. A break from the usual routine, some degree of unpredictability, and overwhelming sounds or crowds can bring more overwhelm than excitement for some autistic kids. or parent prepares, a field trip can be something the child will remember for a very long time.

Pre-trip planning

Clarity and predictability are important when planning the trip.

First, you can preview the location by researching it and showing the child images or videos. You can even visit it yourself to take pictures or videos of the popular spots.

Then, use these visuals to create a social story from the child’s point of view, explaining what will happen that day.

However, if a child shows some mild interest, don’t opt out of a field trip. If a teacher, support worker,