Mixed Age Field Trip Tips?

[BGM]

Hey guys,

So, I'm planning a field trip for my kids in a little under two weeks. I need planning help!!

Here's what's happening:

-I'm taking public transportation to the Botanical Gardens which is a 20-40 minute ride on the bus...8 by car, but I don't do transportation :dislike:
-I plan on going from around 10-2
-I have 2 infants and 3 toddlers, two of which can be really bad walkers. All but one are still in diapers. The oldest is 4 and a great helper...but they're 4. So...::

Am I crazy?? How do I a.) pull this off without losing somebody b.) bring everything I need, including lunches and diapers (one kid is CD) and c.) keep sane?

Do I need some leashes, a whistle, something??

I know it's a huge undertaking, but I close for the summer and really want the kids and parents to leave on a happy note. This is my first year in daycare, so I'm still trying very hard to impress folks. happyface

So far, I'm thinking I'll need:
-To tell the parents I'm using disposable diapers for the CD baby even though they are really, really against it. The mess and extra bulk would just be too much for me.
-I'll need some sort of harness/walking rope system. Preferably one they can't easily let go of and run away.
-Maybe a backpack for lunches, snacks, waters, diapers and paperwork. Should I maybe have a kid backpack and have them take turns wearing it with the diapers or something to help me out??
-Some sort of matching garb for me and the kids in case we are seperated
-Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Thoughts?

[sharlan]

I do 3 field trips a week during the summer.

My first bit of advice, find a helper for the day or find something else to do.

Infants that need diaper changes and toddlers that can run make for a bad situation. It only takes a split second for a toddler to run. You can't abandon 4 to go after 1.

Also taking a stroller on a bus isn't easy. You can't hold on to every one and fold up a stroller.

[lblanke]

What about a water day at your house? Sprinkers, draw a picture of a house on fire with sidewalk chalk and let the kids play fireman (fill up lots of red solo cups with water and let the kids pour water on it until it is gone), water table, run water hose into noodle with holes in it and have kids run under it like they are going through a car wash (need 2 adults). Or a field day at your house...sidewalk chalk, giant bubbles, You could even have an inflatable bounce house (got a pretty inexpensive one at Sam's a few summers ago), Field trip with that many non walkers on public transportation sounds like it might be tough. I would have no more than 1 adult for 2 children for that undertaking. Good luck

[BGM]

I do 3 field trips a week during the summer.

My first bit of advice, find a helper for the day or find something else to do.

Infants that need diaper changes and toddlers that can run make for a bad situation. It only takes a split second for a toddler to run. You can't abandon 4 to go after 1.

Also taking a stroller on a bus isn't easy. You can't hold on to every one and fold up a stroller.

What about a water day at your house? Sprinkers, draw a picture of a house on fire with sidewalk chalk and let the kids play fireman (fill up lots of red solo cups with water and let the kids pour water on it until it is gone), water table, run water hose into noodle with holes in it and have kids run under it like they are going through a car wash (need 2 adults). Or a field day at your house...sidewalk chalk, giant bubbles, You could even have an inflatable bounce house (got a pretty inexpensive one at Sam's a few summers ago), Field trip with that many non walkers on public transportation sounds like it might be tough. I would have no more than 1 adult for 2 children for that undertaking. Good luck

Thanks for the advice guys. I really want to make this work. The bus stop is right outside our house so they don't have to do a ton of walking. They're pretty good if we take a few breaks, but I feel like that's fine because we don't have to walk that far once we get to the gardens. We'll see what we see. We don't have to see it all, I just really want to get out of the house for a day with them.
I know it's going to be hard, but I'm looking for suggestions to make this possible, not alternatives. I've done tons of activities around the house and neighborhood. Now I want to go out and try something new!

[storybookending]

The Montessori school by me all does matching shirts when they go anywhere so they can easily spot which kids are theirs in places where there are a bunch of other children.

I am assuming you are taking a stroller if you have two infants? Do they nap between 10-2 and how are you planning on juggling nap times with the older ones? Have you told parents about your plans yet? Some of them might bail which would make it easier for you if they aren’t comfortable with field trips/public transportation.

I would not be doing this if you are worried about anyone wandering off or losing anyone which it seems like you might be as you mentioned it twice.I would get a helper for sure or not go at all.

[flying_babyb]

thats sounds like a handful! Ive taken 2-6 year olds at our center but we always have two teacher minimum. I wouldn't even consider taking my 2s on public transit. A walking rope is a good idea but some kids just cant grasp the concept (lots of falling down). We've been practicing for 2 weeks and still cant make it (we go boom alot). Try a walking field trip on a rope first. I agree its a PITA to take a stroller on the bus. I ride two daily and feel for the moms with strollers, also most buses require you take your child out of the stroller for safety. can you hold two infants while also watching 3 toddlers(who will most likey be bouncing and excited) and one four year old (who will be equally bouncy, the bus is a cool place). If you try this i would get a assistant for the day

[BGM]

thats sounds like a handful! Ive taken 2-6 year olds at our center but we always have two teacher minimum. I wouldn't even consider taking my 2s on public transit. A walking rope is a good idea but some kids just cant grasp the concept (lots of falling down). We've been practicing for 2 weeks and still cant make it (we go boom alot). Try a walking field trip on a rope first. I agree its a PITA to take a stroller on the bus. I ride two daily and feel for the moms with strollers, also most buses require you take your child out of the stroller for safety. can you hold two infants while also watching 3 toddlers(who will most likey be bouncing and excited) and one four year old (who will be equally bouncy, the bus is a cool place). If you try this i would get a assistant for the day

The Montessori school by me all does matching shirts when they go anywhere so they can easily spot which kids are theirs in places where there are a bunch of other children.

I am assuming you are taking a stroller if you have two infants? Do they nap between 10-2 and how are you planning on juggling nap times with the older ones? Have you told parents about your plans yet? Some of them might bail which would make it easier for you if they aren’t comfortable with field trips/public transportation.

I would not be doing this if you are worried about anyone wandering off or losing anyone which it seems like you might be as you mentioned it twice.I would get a helper for sure or not go at all.

One of my "infants" is actually 22 months and can walk and run, so I was considering maybe bringing the other little baby in a Ergobaby and having the stroller as a backup in case my big baby or one of the other kids has a meltdown and refuses to walk. Or! Maybe I can Egrobaby the little baby, put the bigger one in the stroller and then put my slowest walker in the stroller as well...
I guess I'm being dramatic about them running off in three different directions. They're more likely to just quit walking than anything. haha

I get many of you are saying don't go, but I'm trying to focus on how to make this possible because I think it's possible to do this safely with my group, I just need some help planning logistics.

[mamamanda]

Hey guys,

So, I'm planning a field trip for my kids in a little under two weeks. I need planning help!!

Here's what's happening:

-I'm taking public transportation to the Botanical Gardens which is a 20-40 minute ride on the bus...8 by car, but I don't do transportation :dislike:
-I plan on going from around 10-2
-I have 2 infants and 3 toddlers, two of which can be really bad walkers. All but one are still in diapers. The oldest is 4 and a great helper...but they're 4. So...::

Am I crazy?? How do I a.) pull this off without losing somebody b.) bring everything I need, including lunches and diapers (one kid is CD) and c.) keep sane?

Do I need some leashes, a whistle, something??

I know it's a huge undertaking, but I close for the summer and really want the kids and parents to leave on a happy note. This is my first year in daycare, so I'm still trying very hard to impress folks. happyface

So far, I'm thinking I'll need:
-To tell the parents I'm using disposable diapers for the CD baby even though they are really, really against it. The mess and extra bulk would just be too much for me.
-I'll need some sort of harness/walking rope system. Preferably one they can't easily let go of and run away.
-Maybe a backpack for lunches, snacks, waters, diapers and paperwork. Should I maybe have a kid backpack and have them take turns wearing it with the diapers or something to help me out??
-Some sort of matching garb for me and the kids in case we are seperated
-Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Thoughts?

I'm trying to picture your group to make the best suggestions... you're saying 1 young infant, a 22 mo, & 3 kids age 2-4. Am I reading that right? Sounds about like my group. I have different numbers different days, but my full time crew is a 9 mo, two 2yo, a 3 yo, & my own 6 yo. We've experimented a lot & I've found what works best for me. We go to the library every week & usually one other outing as well.

What works for me is I wear the baby on my chest in a carrier allowing both hands to be free & I carry supplies in a backpack on my back. Obviously take everything you will need, but pack light. It gets heavy. .
I have a 24 mo who is smallish & I don't trust her not to run so I typically carry her on one hip or allow her to walk holding my hand while wearing a backpack with leash attached for an added safety measure.
My 2.75 yo also wears a backpack leash. (I don't rely on the leashes. I am training them to walk as a group, but they give me peace of mind knowing they are there for a back up safety feature.) He holds my other hand & my 3 yo holds his hand. I am pretty lenient at home, but rules are strict on outings & they all know it. You do not for any reason let go of your buddy's hand while walking together.

I use a red circle for each kiddo & they know when holding the circle they are to sit still & be calm. This might be something to consider for the bus ride. I use it on the bookmobile while they wait their turn to pick a book.

Very honestly, I would not take a group that size/ages on public transportation w/o an assistant. Not b/c you're not capable or they wouldn't listen, but b/c too many unseen things can happen. Emergencies happen, crazy people try to snatch kids, someone always poops just after you've returned from the bathroom, etc etc. I've found that taking someone with me just allows me to enjoy the experience so much more.
Do you have a family member you would trust to take with you for the day? A mom, grandma, aunt, etc? Would one of the parents like to go as a chaperone? Could you hire a teenager from church to help for the day? There are many options there that would allow you the fun day you're envisioning while still giving you a little extra peace of mind.

A few other tips, take cards w/each kids emergency contact info in the backpack just in case. Make sure you have access to drinks for everyone. If you can manage the double stroller on the bus it could be a life saver to let the kids take turns riding when they get tired if you're holding/wearing baby.

Hope some of that helps.

[BGM]

I'm trying to picture your group to make the best suggestions... you're saying 1 young infant, a 22 mo, & 3 kids age 2-4. Am I reading that right? Sounds about like my group. I have different numbers different days, but my full time crew is a 9 mo, two 2yo, a 3 yo, & my own 6 yo. We've experimented a lot & I've found what works best for me. We go to the library every week & usually one other outing as well.

What works for me is I wear the baby on my chest in a carrier allowing both hands to be free & I carry supplies in a backpack on my back. Obviously take everything you will need, but pack light. It gets heavy. .
I have a 24 mo who is smallish & I don't trust her not to run so I typically carry her on one hip or allow her to walk holding my hand while wearing a backpack with leash attached for an added safety measure.
My 2.75 yo also wears a backpack leash. (I don't rely on the leashes. I am training them to walk as a group, but they give me peace of mind knowing they are there for a back up safety feature.) He holds my other hand & my 3 yo holds his hand. I am pretty lenient at home, but rules are strict on outings & they all know it. You do not for any reason let go of your buddy's hand while walking together.

I use a red circle for each kiddo & they know when holding the circle they are to sit still & be calm. This might be something to consider for the bus ride. I use it on the bookmobile while they wait their turn to pick a book.

Very honestly, I would not take a group that size/ages on public transportation w/o an assistant. Not b/c you're not capable or they wouldn't listen, but b/c too many unseen things can happen. Emergencies happen, crazy people try to snatch kids, someone always poops just after you've returned from the bathroom, etc etc. I've found that taking someone with me just allows me to enjoy the experience so much more.
Do you have a family member you would trust to take with you for the day? A mom, grandma, aunt, etc? Would one of the parents like to go as a chaperone? Could you hire a teenager from church to help for the day? There are many options there that would allow you the fun day you're envisioning while still giving you a little extra peace of mind.

A few other tips, take cards w/each kids emergency contact info in the backpack just in case. Make sure you have access to drinks for everyone. If you can manage the double stroller on the bus it could be a life saver to let the kids take turns riding when they get tired if you're holding/wearing baby.

Hope some of that helps.

Thank you!! That was a ton of helpful information. I was going to ask the parents if anyone would like to volunteer, but if not, I was really hoping to try and get the logistics for this to do solo.

[Unregistered]

..

Ive never used one of these ropes but Maby this walking rope with hand straps would work for u https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0155...h+straps&psc=1

[BGM]

Ive never used one of these ropes but Maby this walking rope with hand straps would work for u https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0155...h+straps&psc=1

I love this! I was having trouble finding one that was a bit more secure than just trusting the kids to hold on to the rope. Thank you!

[daisymay]

Have you asked the parents if they are ok with all of this? You have said several times that you do not want alternatives but instead help with the logistics. If you can’t figure out the logistics of this on your own knowing your group better than we do obviously I do not think you are making a wise decision. Just asking if you should wear matching colors in case you get seperated is beyond concerning to me. I think if you have not asked the parents yet you are likely to be met with a huge no way. I would never want my infant or toddler to ride on a public bus in a group with only one adult. Throw an end of the year party and invite the parents. Get a bounce house and some food.

[mommyneedsadayoff]

I am curious as to whether the parents have signed on for the trip as well. If they have, then here is my advice.

Don't do it. It sounds like a HUGE pain in the ass type trip to a place that your age group will probably not appreciate. I love Botanical Gardens, but my kids get bored after the first few flowers and they are not under five. It sounds like a lot of work and a huge liability for you. They will have so much more fun having a sprinkler day in the back yard and bonus points for an early nap time, since they will be worn out!happyface If you insist on doing the trip, let parents know your exact plans so they can opt out. And your youngest four should be in a stroller or contained in some way(wear the baby). The four year old keeps a hand on the stroller the whole time. Pack up the bag to have everything you may need and keep your phone charged! Best of luck and hope you all enjoy your trip!

[Josiegirl]

I applaud your intentions! happyface And I think you're crazy. :: JK
I know I couldn't do it. I remember the days I used to take 6 dcks for a walk or to the library, it was difficult and scary. I cannot imagine taking a bus.
I love the idea of the backpack leashes, kids can take their own water bottles, extra clothes, etc., without you taking on a lot of extra weight. A baby carrier for sure. First aid kit along with the emergency cards that were mentioned.
I kind of hope, for your sake, either a parent volunteers to help, or someone chooses to not send their child. That's a lot for 1 person to handle.
Good luck!!! And don't forget to take pictures!!

[Cat Herder]

I don't want to be a downer but I can't see this as a safe choice.

A 5/1 ratio with one non-mobile and one barely mobile on public transportation, without an assistant, is relying on the grace of strangers in case of emergency.

Almost two hours confined on the bus then 4 hours at a garden is not developmentally appropriate for infants and toddlers.

You said only one of the five is a good walker and this is your very first year doing daycare. Please think on this on longer. :hug:

I think planting a class garden and playing in the sprinkler would be more fun for the kids.