On field trips, what should children experience according to best practices in early childhood education?

Exploring new places during field trips is essential in early childhood education because it promotes experiential learning and curiosity in children. When children visit unfamiliar environments, they encounter diverse stimuli that enhance their cognitive and social development. These experiences help them to make connections between new concepts and their existing knowledge, which is crucial for their overall learning process.

New environments can foster a sense of adventure and discovery, encouraging children to observe, ask questions, and engage in problem-solving. This exploration can be particularly beneficial for developing social skills, as children interact with peers and adults outside their typical settings, broadening their perspectives.

Returning to familiar places, while comforting, can limit the opportunities for growth and new learning experiences. Staying within the classroom restricts the variety of sensory and educational opportunities available for children, and solely engaging with parents during field trips may not provide the range of interactions that can come from diverse social settings with other adults and children. Thus, the emphasis on exploring new places aligns with best practices in early childhood education, facilitating holistic development through rich, varied experiences.