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It has been a long, snow-filled winter and that can only mean one thing in Minnesota. Time to roll down the windows and go for a cruise – even if it is only 63 and mostly cloudy. And don’t forget, we are driving a mini-van. We homeschool. It is a pre-requisite in many families. It is time to let the kids create their own field trips. One of the easiest ways to help kids learn direction (as in a compass) is to let them give the directions.
Pack a lunch or a snack, this could be a long day. Add in a map for backup and a journal for each child, plus the camera because you never know what you might find. Climb in the van and explain the rules: each child gets to take a turn giving Mom or Dad the direction and there has to be a fair amount of warning time. Younger kids can call out "left" or "right" or even point. Starting about age 6 in our family the kids have used north, south, east or west, and are now moving on to other points in between. The kids can draw pictures of what they see, try to track their moves along a map or draw their own, and write about their surroundings. Don’t be afraid to stop for a new park or fun store.
Some other great learning tools to experiment with along the way are mileage calculators, fuel calculators, road games, and predictions of what might be around the bend. This travel adventure is easiest played at times with little traffic and in areas where there are small numbers of lanes. The kids love the idea of directing the vehicle. You can set a pre-determined amount of time for what you think is a half-way point, then perhaps have an older child try to use a map to direct you on the best route home. The next time your homeschool day needs a break, let the kids take over and navigate!
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