As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston provides a variety of educational opportunities. Its proximity to the water, educated populace, diverse culture and history make it an exciting place to explore with children of all ages. Group tours can be cheaper per person and field trip reservations often provide visitors with special guided tours or access to areas regular visitors don't get to see.
According to its mission statement, The Boston Children's Museum "exists to help children and families enjoy, understand and become active citizens of the world in which they live." This is occurs through hands-on activities and exhibits that help children explore the world through touch, feel, sound and interactive experiences. An art studio, a physics playground, exhibits on energy and electricity, recycling, music, construction and gardening, among others, shows children that science is part of the real world, not just something to study in textbooks. For teachers, the museum has a special library, teaching kits you can bring into the classroom, printable lesson plans and activities plus teacher training workshops.
Boston Children's Museum
308 Congress St.
Boston, MA 02210
617-426-6500
bostonchildrensmuseum.org
Author Ben L. Edwards leads walking tours for all ages, from the Boston Commons to the North End, stopping at 14 historic sites along the way. For field trips, he customizes the tour to meet the needs of the group. Tours are shorter for younger children and plenty of time is allotted for questions and answers. The average walk is about 90 minutes. He shares information and anecdotes about colonial life and the people who lived during that time. His stories include those of his ancestors, who were involved in the Sons of Liberty. Edwards also is available to visit schools to speak and share his children's book, "One April in Boston." His website offers a free downloadable audiobook.
Walking Tours of Historic Boston
Ben L. Edwards, Write Marketing Group
221 Massachusetts Ave. #1003
Boston, MA 02115
617-670-1888
walkingboston.com
Every year, 1.3 million people visit the New England Aquarium. Guests come to enjoy a combination of entertainment and education that focuses on conserving the health of the world's oceans, inspired by the creatures that live in the sea. The aquarium's free step-by-step planning guide advises school groups to reserve at least two weeks in advance for groups of 10 or more, in order to receive discounted tickets. The aquarium website has resources for field trip planning, including printable activities, pre-learning suggestions and even financial aid resources.
New England Aquarium
1 Central Wharf
Boston, MA 02110-3309
617-973-5200
neaq.org
