Summer 2017

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Awell-rounded home education wouldn’t be complete
without lots of field trips; right? I am not just talking
about the “grocery store field trip”. We all know the
benefits of field trips: firsthand experience, knowledge from
experts, and fellowship with friends. Harvey & Laurie Bluedorn
suggest: “Give your child experiences from which to build his
understanding of the world - experiences he will draw upon and
perhaps revisit when he is older. “
If you’re like me, you start the year off with noble aspirations.
However, as autumn slips by, consumed with new curricula and
a busy co-op schedule, well intended plans get pushed aside.
Perhaps reflecting on the spiritual aspect will encourage us to
take a fresh look at field trips, going beyond the academic to a
higher purpose.
Have you ever stopped to consider the spiritual benefits of
a field trip? That’s right, spiritual benefits! Your family can find
spiritual blessings in the midst of learning outside the home.
Let’s dive into five blessings that come from field trips.
1. Experience God’s Glory
My mama heart soared during a recent family trip to a
spectacular, rugged Missouri State Park. While hiking, our son
proclaimed out loud,“This is the most beautiful place I have ever
seen. It makes me want to worship God!”
Isn’t that our goal for home education? To draw our children
to God and create an environment for worship? How blessed
our children are when we take them to experience all of God’s
wisdom and glory, whether in nature, at the science museum, or
through history exhibits where we learn about God’s provision
for humanity.
“I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders.”
Psalm 9:1
2. Be a Light
What a statement our families make when we interact with
our communities! Nothing stands out more in today’s society
then a group of well-mannered, appropriately dressed children
with a desire to learn. On a field trip, we are first a testimony of
Christ, but also of home education.
It can be tempting to keep to ourselves and stay under the
radar. But God has called us to be a light in this dark world. Field
trips serve as opportunities to shine.
“You are the light of the world.
A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Matthew 5:14
3. Practice Apologetics
Sitting criss-cross applesauce on the floor of the library, my
sweet six-year-old looked appalled as the traveling zoo program
Field Trips:
A Spiritual Necessity
BY JENNIFER CIHA
LEDGES STATE PARK
ANIMAL RESCUE LEAGUE
DES MOINES ART CENTER
EARLY SCHOOL