Tips for Taking Groups of Kids Places

My Facebook memories keep reminding me of recent years when, either with another adult or alone, I took 5-6 children to the zoo. It keeps reminding me of various outings in the DC area where I live. This summer, as I continue working as a nanny, I continue taking 4 or more children to a variety of places. Here are a few things I've learned about taking a group of children on a day trip.

* Take a before picture. I don't know where I learned this, but I always do it when we're visiting zoos, amusement parks, or museums. Take a photo of your group of children. In the event that you are looking for a lost child, or need to report it to authorities, you can describe exactly what that child was wearing, down to their crocs on the wrong feet. ;) 

* Wear bright colors. If you've ever scanned a playground

for your child, you might have noticed that it's easier to spot a child in a red t-shirt than in a gray one. When going to big parks or places, I request that the children wear bright shirts. I do so as well, and I remind the children upon arrival that they can look for me in my hot pink shirt if they can't find me. (Bonus: Wear a hot pink shirt AND a fanny pack!) :)

* Make sure they have your cell phone number. If the children don't have your number memorized, write it on a slip of paper and put in their pocket or pin it inside their clothes. If they don't mind a temporary tattoo, write your phone number on their skin in permanent marker! I've been known to do that. :) 

* Be aware of your surroundings, but don't let fear rule the day. Yes, there are those scary stories in the news. But there are also countless outings with children and their caregivers where everyone has an adventure and has a good time!

* Feed and hydrate them! Bring snacks and water. Remember that a child having a meltdown during a day trip is likely linked to a tired, hungry/hangry, dehydrated, overstimulated child. Rest for a few minutes, and evaluate if everyone can keep sight-seeing. 

* Take a stroller. Even if they're getting too big for a stroller, it can come in handy on a day when you might walk 5 miles (such as at the zoo or an amusement park). I have found it worthwhile to rent a huge plastic stroller at such places, where you can throw a few kids and all the bags in and move at a faster speed.

* In some ways, it gets easier as they get older. They are interested in bigger and better places (an amusement park instead of a splash pad, for example), and they can walk with more stamina. They become more responsible, and you can enjoy new ventures as a group!

Those are the thoughts coming off the top of my head on this July morning as I think about outings with growing children. What would you add to this list? 


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That time the painting at the
art museum was shushing me!

Hi, I’m Betsy, and I live in the Washington, D.C. area with my husband, Mike. We have been married since 2008. We enjoy exploring new cities together on foot and doing life as a team.

I write because I feel called and I enjoy it, and I hope that my words point you toward God! My first book, Embracing Hope During Infertility is intended to infuse hope into your heart! My second book, although written for children, will point you toward the goodness of God, even in the darkest times.

You can learn more about me here. I would love for you to connect with me by following my Hope During Infertility Facebook page or my Betsy Herman, Writer Facebook page. I’m also on Instagram and Twitter as @lovethatbetsy.

Thanks so much for reading this post!