South Coast Montessori is highlighting the significance of the Montessori Going Out/Field Trips in the elementary classroom. The trips enhancing children’s education by providing students with hands-on experiences beyond the confines of the classroom.

On a recent field trip with the Maritime Museum, students learned about the importance of the ocean, the amount of oxygen the ocean provides, and the creatures that live in and around the sea.

South Coast Montessori elementary students, wearing shorts, t-shirts and sunhats, gather sand crabs and engage in other activities along the seashore.
South Coast Montessori elementary students gather sand crabs as part of a field trip to the seashore. Credit: Courtesy photo

“In our elementary Montessori program, we have this unique opportunity to go out into the community and learn about the world outside of the classroom,” said Melina Cremeen, who guides the school’s elementary program.

Going Out allows students to explore the world around them, and connect theoretical knowledge with real-life applications.

“By immersing themselves in different environments, students can witness firsthand the concepts they have learned in class, making their education more tangible and relevant,” the school said.

During the field trip with the Maritime Museum, students participated in hands-on and observational activities.

To start, they were given the tools to retrieve a sand crab, create a mini habitat, and release the crabs back into the sand.

Watching from the shore, the class observed a pod of dolphins playing in shallow water.

The kids were able to ask questions of a docent, and learn more about their own role in the connecting with the marine environment. 

Such field trips also promote independence and responsibility, said Cremeen.

“Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning by actively participating in the planning and preparing of these outings,” she said.

From researching the destination to organizing logistics, students develop critical thinking and organizational skills, leading them to become self-directed learners, she said. 

In addition to academic and social benefits, field trips contribute to the holistic development of students.

“By stepping outside their comfort zones, students build resilience, adaptability, and a sense of adventure,” Cremeen said. “These experiences foster personal growth, boost self esteem, and inspire a lifeline love for exploration and discovery.”

For more about South Coast Montessori’s Elementary program, contact Lisa Schaeffer at office@southcoastmontessori or visit www.southcoastmontessori.org.