Mastering Behavior Management Beyond the Classroom: Field Trip Edition

Field trips are a highlight for many students, offering a break from the routine of the classroom and a hands-on learning experience. However, they also present a unique set of challenges when it comes to managing student behavior outside of familiar surroundings. I have outline a couple of tips and tricks to help with field trip behavior.

Preparation is Key: Before the Field Trip

Preparing students for the field trip before hand and setting the expectations through a social story sets the tone BEFORE and is key to a successful trip. This preparation ensures students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the trip and know what to expect. Grab the full product HERE.

Reviewing Behavior Expectations

It’s important to review behavior expectations to reinforce the standards of conduct that will be upheld during the field trip. Student’s need to clearly understand how to behave on the field trip. You can do this individually or as a whole group. One great way is using this free behavior expectation sort below.

Grab this FREE field trip behavior expectation sort!

Utilizing Visuals for Reinforcement

One effective way to reinforce behavior expectations during a field trip is by utilizing visuals. Visual aids, such as posters or visual guides, can serve as a constant reminder of the expected behavior and help students stay on track. These visuals can be placed in strategic locations, such as on the bus or at the entrance of the destination, to serve as a visual cue for students throughout the trip. By incorporating visuals into the reinforcement strategy, students are more likely to remember and adhere to the behavior expectations set for the field trip.

Be Consistent

Remember, consistency and clear communication are key in maintaining order and creating a positive learning environment outside of the classroom. Establishing clear expectations for behavior, such as staying with the group at all times and following directions from chaperones is crucial. Creating a plan to ensure that all students stay together as a group is essential for a successful and safe field trip experience. This can be achieved by assigning buddy systems, where each student is responsible for checking in with a partner throughout the trip.

As you plan your next field trip, keep these tips in mind to help your students, but to also keep your sanity!

Don’t forget… Field trip TIRED is like no other tired! Take care of yourself and treat yourself afterwards… YOU DESERVE IT!