Embark on a global adventure: Virtual field trips for school and public holidays

It can be a real challenge to think up new engaging and educational activities to occupy your child's time during school and public holidays. But fear not, parents! Virtual field trips are one way to bring them along on exciting global adventures from the comfort of your home, saving you precious time, energy and money.

With the power of the internet, we can now visit places of interest without needing to be there in person. These digital explorations are not just entertaining; they're educational, offering a unique way to inspire young minds with the wonders of our world.

Here follows a quick little guide to organise your own virtual field trip. Feel free to take notes!

Virtual field trip resources and tools

Before you call your child over for a little impromptu virtual trip, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with these top-notch resources that promise engaging and user-friendly experiences:

• Google Arts & Culture: This lesser-known feature by Google is a treasure trove, offering virtual visits to over 2,000 museums and galleries worldwide. Its extensive collection and the interactive way it brings art and history to life makes it a must-use in our case.
• Google Earth: With 3rd landscapes, crisp satellite photos and even street-level views, Google Earth makes it easy for anyone to travel anywhere in the world.
• National Geographic: Renowned for its stunning photography and in-depth storytelling, National Geographic offers immersive virtual tours that explore the natural world, making it a perfect resource for budding explorers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Must-visit virtual destinations

Now that you have your tools with you, it’s time to plan your itinerary! Most locations should be accessible with the ones mentioned previously, but it’s better to check them out first before starting the virtual trip.

Fishing for ideas? Here’s a few of our selected destinations which offer diverse experiences, from art and history to science and nature:

• The Louvre, Paris: With its vast array of art, The Louvre is perfect for young art fans and history buffs, offering a glimpse into centuries of creativity.
• The Great Wall of China: This architectural wonder provides a virtual hike that's as educational as it is breathtaking - ideal for adventurous spirits.
• The San Diego Zoo: For animal lovers, the zoo's live cams and videos offer an up-close look at wildlife, promoting empathy and a deeper understanding of nature. Your own neighbourhood: Wandering around your neighbourhood in a virtual setting can be more entertaining than you think. Just give it a try!

Enhancing the experience

Want to make these virtual tours more meaningful? Just plan your itinerary around various themes. Whether it’s about learning more about ancient civilisations, exploring the animal kingdom, or even just to take a little sightseeing tour down your own memory lane, thematic exploration can add an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the adventure.

The takeaway

Virtual field trips are a great way to spend a nice weekend afternoon with your child to explore the world in the comfort of your home. Remember, these digital adventures are more than just a way to pass time; they're a gateway to learning, discovery, and the excitement of exploration.

By choosing the right resources and destinations, you can ensure that your child's free time is not only enjoyable but also enriching, leaving them with precious memories about spending family time with you that will stay with them for years to come. Have fun and journey on!