A blustery day by any standards greeted us for our field trip to Ramseyer Farms in Wooster this day. I was not discouraged. Actually, I've found that wind and rain often accompany my girls and I on some of our best days out.
Ramseyer Farms has the best harvest and maze tours of any farm, orchard or similar facility I have ever visited. I had such a wonderful time. I can't wait to go back next fall.
This visit had been rescheduled from a much rainier day earlier in October, and this day we visited was ultimately, the last day of the season which we could visit, because they finish all of their harvesting activities in October.
We began with the Harvest tour, which is recommended for the lower elementary grades. Many of the older children, though, still enjoyed it. First, we were shown the play area, which contains a number of box mazes, a corn slide, animals to feed, a giant pumpkin house and numerous things to play with, even a few for our older students. After a short time here, we were given an informative talk on the crops grown at Ramseyer, especially corn, potatoes and pumpkins. The children were given a lot of information and answered questions themselves before we all had a taste of homemade potato chips. Yummy!
Next, we climbed aboard a tractor-drawn wagon to pick pumpkins and potatoes in the field. Bags had been recommended for carrying the "goodies" and were especially useful since the pumpkins and potatoes were muddy. Even my 3 year old enjoyed traipsing through the field to find just the right pumpkin. Our nice tractor ride dropped us off at the beginning again, and those of us who were taking the Ohio Maze tour took a brief moment to eat lunch before we braved the now constant rain.
The Ohio Maze is a giant corn maze in the shape of Ohio with actual highways and other landmarks and paths carved into it. There are many points of information along the way. Designed for students in gr. 4 and up, there is a lot for you to do here. It is a self-guided tour as you walk the paths looking for answers to the questions on your handout. Stamps to find to finish the code, cities to discover and record info, bodies of water, bordering states, the list goes on. We found more than half of our information before deciding to head back because of the rain. As it turns out, everyone else in our group had turned back even sooner. Still, even with the rain, it was completely worth while. Definitely, a situation for good, thick-soled boots with big lugs.
We had such a nice day. Although this won't matter to many people, I was pleased by the lack of Halloween paraphernalia/decorations. I didn't see anything but harvest decor all around.
I have been to numerous farms/orchards/etc. in the fall and not one can stand up to the program at Ramseyer. The staff was friendly and cheerful, the farm was beautiful and the price was reasonable. It's no wonder this is such a popular farm in the fall. Worth a long drive, too.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Cleveland Federal Reserve Money Museum
Our trip to the Money Museum at the Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank was a grand experience. Although I was not able to attend, I look forward to the next one (February, by the way). The tour space is limited and we filled up our spots quickly. The tours need to be scheduled about 5 - 6 months in advance. The cost is free. Tours are geared toward upper elementary, gr. 4 and up.
Since I was not in attendance, one of the other parents wrote a brief review of her experience at the Money Museum, so here it is. Thanks, Nerida!
"Our trip to the Federal Reserve Bank in Cleveland was outstanding! The more I think of it, the more things I remember and am amazed by. The whole tour was kid-focused but not childish. The building was beautiful and the tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The children were excited and asked many questions. All exhibits were hands on... and clean! We were not there so long that we got tired or bored.
We all had great things to discuss on the ride home. The subject matter was how money came to be, how the value of money is set, interest, inflation and the actual money itself. I highly recommend this tour. The museum is open to the public from Monday to Thursday (if memory serves!) from 10 am till 2 pm. and is FREE! Happy field tripping! "
Since I was not in attendance, one of the other parents wrote a brief review of her experience at the Money Museum, so here it is. Thanks, Nerida!
"Our trip to the Federal Reserve Bank in Cleveland was outstanding! The more I think of it, the more things I remember and am amazed by. The whole tour was kid-focused but not childish. The building was beautiful and the tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The children were excited and asked many questions. All exhibits were hands on... and clean! We were not there so long that we got tired or bored.
We all had great things to discuss on the ride home. The subject matter was how money came to be, how the value of money is set, interest, inflation and the actual money itself. I highly recommend this tour. The museum is open to the public from Monday to Thursday (if memory serves!) from 10 am till 2 pm. and is FREE! Happy field tripping! "
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Mapleside Farms, Brunswick
I arrived ridiculously late to this field trip because I had written down the wrong beginning time. Yes, it happens to me too.
When I arrived, our group had already toured the orchards and was about to come up the long path back toward the store, restaurant, ice cream shop, etc. We hurried down to meet them as we saw them from the top of the hill where we parked.
Mapleside Farms in Brunswick has beautiful acres of apple trees and an amazing view, which you may be able to approximate from my terrible photo. :-)
The children had been able to pick a couple of apples in the orchard and received a very basic explanation of what a couple of varieties were and how they grew.
When we arrived back in the warehouse, we were able to view the machine that washes and coats the apples in wax to make them shiny. It also sorts them by size.
We walked in the huge cooler where they store their apples and other produce while waiting to sell it. Each child received another apple, a Gala this time, and we were escorted to an empty dining room in the basement under the main restaurant. Here, we were all given apple cider donuts and apple cider, served by the moms attending the tour. Each child was also given a small pumpkin to keep and a coloring book about apples.
My girls especially enjoyed the play area and straw bale slide erected at the end of the building, so we stayed a little after and played with some other field trippers.
There was little information and education involved in the tour, and the tour guide seemed to be not used to teaching children. Most of the children didn't mind this too much and had a good time anyway. The cost was a little more than most farms, $7.00 per child, and $4 per adult. Strollers are a definite no-go, due to the long walk through the often muddy orchard and the long haul back up the hill.
We ended our day with a long drive back home so we could stop at one of my favorite ice cream places ever, Country Maid Ice Cream on Rt. 303 in Richfield. I remember stopping here to get ice cream before we went to the Coliseum to see the Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus when I was a kid. I still remember their pistachio, and I have to tell you it is still just as good as it ever was. Mmmm... that was a nice ending to a field trip.
When I arrived, our group had already toured the orchards and was about to come up the long path back toward the store, restaurant, ice cream shop, etc. We hurried down to meet them as we saw them from the top of the hill where we parked.
Mapleside Farms in Brunswick has beautiful acres of apple trees and an amazing view, which you may be able to approximate from my terrible photo. :-)
The children had been able to pick a couple of apples in the orchard and received a very basic explanation of what a couple of varieties were and how they grew.
When we arrived back in the warehouse, we were able to view the machine that washes and coats the apples in wax to make them shiny. It also sorts them by size.
We walked in the huge cooler where they store their apples and other produce while waiting to sell it. Each child received another apple, a Gala this time, and we were escorted to an empty dining room in the basement under the main restaurant. Here, we were all given apple cider donuts and apple cider, served by the moms attending the tour. Each child was also given a small pumpkin to keep and a coloring book about apples.
My girls especially enjoyed the play area and straw bale slide erected at the end of the building, so we stayed a little after and played with some other field trippers.
There was little information and education involved in the tour, and the tour guide seemed to be not used to teaching children. Most of the children didn't mind this too much and had a good time anyway. The cost was a little more than most farms, $7.00 per child, and $4 per adult. Strollers are a definite no-go, due to the long walk through the often muddy orchard and the long haul back up the hill.
We ended our day with a long drive back home so we could stop at one of my favorite ice cream places ever, Country Maid Ice Cream on Rt. 303 in Richfield. I remember stopping here to get ice cream before we went to the Coliseum to see the Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus when I was a kid. I still remember their pistachio, and I have to tell you it is still just as good as it ever was. Mmmm... that was a nice ending to a field trip.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Roscoe Village, Coshocton
A very fun day in the historic village of Roscoe Village in Coshocton. Although we didn't travel with a group, we had a very nice time experiencing history together.
It started out gray and rainy, but I hardly noticed. I think the busy-ness of getting out the door kept my attitude from being gray along with the weather. I knew I had a long drive to Roscoe Village, and I was hoping it would be worth it. Well, it really and truly was worth the drive and braving the rainy weather.
Who am I kidding? I love rain! I do. Rain creates wonderful opportunities for us on field trips, and this was no exception. We attended the Home School Days at Roscoe Village on Tuesday, one day after the deluge of home schoolers flooded the streets on the beautiful, sunny Monday. On Tuesday, we were flooded with nothing but a bit of water and plenty of attention from the staff in the Living History Museum/Buildings/Town.
Period crafts were offered, which included either candle dipping or tin punching. We chose to do tin punching, and my 9 year old made a beautiful piece which she has already lovingly given to her grandma for a birthday present. My 3 year old was less than enthusiastic about hammering in front of a stranger (she's very timid around new people), so I did her craft for her, and it is still hanging in her room. (She clung to it all day, though, as if she had punched every hole.) The crafts cost $2 each.
We received a map and info about the village, and set out in the rain to visit the past. We were not disappointed. The first building we visited contained the printing press. There was one giant press which was still the same design originally created by Guttenberg himself. The presses hadn't changed much in hundreds of years. After learning a bit about it, my older daughter was able to set it up and actually print a page to take with her. In the same room, we learned about how newspapers and bulletins were made by printers, watching the printer set up the type for a page and seeing how he ran off pages. Then, my daughter, again, was allowed to print a page, this time on a much more "modern" printing press, which was the size of a large cash register and had a handle on the front. Using your body strength, you can actually print easier with this than the giant press on the other side of the room. Of course, I'm not sure which my daughter preferred.
We also visited the cooper and learned the secret of the bucket (I'll bet you didn't know there was one). It was very interesting, but my 3 year old much more enjoyed the assortment of wooden toys he had lying on the windowsill which she was allowed to play with.
Other buildings included: the broommaker, the schoolhouse, a vintage canal boat, the doctor's office, home and kitchen, where we sampled yummy bread baked that day. We were also introduced to a wonderful man who carves birds. He doesn't charge any money for his creations, but there is a long waiting list. His "store" is called the Sandpiper, and it is not a part of the Living History Tour, but is worth a stop just to see his amazingly accurate recreations.
Almost every place had something for the children to do, not just see. We actually didn't get to see everything because we had to leave after a while.
We love historical sites like Hale Farm and Zoar Village, and this was just as wonderful, but in its own unique way. You won't be redundant by spending a day at Roscoe Village, even if you've visited all of the other historical sites.
Because of the rain, the attendance was much lower, so there was more time to stay and enjoy each place we visited. I don't know if they have areas to eat a lunch. The rain kept us from picnicking. If you do come on a rainy day, I would suggest bringing a plastic bag to carry all of the papers and goodies picked up in various buildings. I had a hard time keeping ours dry. Strollers are probably not allowed in the buildings, but you might want one for the walking if you have a little one.
It started out gray and rainy, but I hardly noticed. I think the busy-ness of getting out the door kept my attitude from being gray along with the weather. I knew I had a long drive to Roscoe Village, and I was hoping it would be worth it. Well, it really and truly was worth the drive and braving the rainy weather.
Who am I kidding? I love rain! I do. Rain creates wonderful opportunities for us on field trips, and this was no exception. We attended the Home School Days at Roscoe Village on Tuesday, one day after the deluge of home schoolers flooded the streets on the beautiful, sunny Monday. On Tuesday, we were flooded with nothing but a bit of water and plenty of attention from the staff in the Living History Museum/Buildings/Town.
Period crafts were offered, which included either candle dipping or tin punching. We chose to do tin punching, and my 9 year old made a beautiful piece which she has already lovingly given to her grandma for a birthday present. My 3 year old was less than enthusiastic about hammering in front of a stranger (she's very timid around new people), so I did her craft for her, and it is still hanging in her room. (She clung to it all day, though, as if she had punched every hole.) The crafts cost $2 each.
We received a map and info about the village, and set out in the rain to visit the past. We were not disappointed. The first building we visited contained the printing press. There was one giant press which was still the same design originally created by Guttenberg himself. The presses hadn't changed much in hundreds of years. After learning a bit about it, my older daughter was able to set it up and actually print a page to take with her. In the same room, we learned about how newspapers and bulletins were made by printers, watching the printer set up the type for a page and seeing how he ran off pages. Then, my daughter, again, was allowed to print a page, this time on a much more "modern" printing press, which was the size of a large cash register and had a handle on the front. Using your body strength, you can actually print easier with this than the giant press on the other side of the room. Of course, I'm not sure which my daughter preferred.
We also visited the cooper and learned the secret of the bucket (I'll bet you didn't know there was one). It was very interesting, but my 3 year old much more enjoyed the assortment of wooden toys he had lying on the windowsill which she was allowed to play with.
Other buildings included: the broommaker, the schoolhouse, a vintage canal boat, the doctor's office, home and kitchen, where we sampled yummy bread baked that day. We were also introduced to a wonderful man who carves birds. He doesn't charge any money for his creations, but there is a long waiting list. His "store" is called the Sandpiper, and it is not a part of the Living History Tour, but is worth a stop just to see his amazingly accurate recreations.
Almost every place had something for the children to do, not just see. We actually didn't get to see everything because we had to leave after a while.
We love historical sites like Hale Farm and Zoar Village, and this was just as wonderful, but in its own unique way. You won't be redundant by spending a day at Roscoe Village, even if you've visited all of the other historical sites.
Because of the rain, the attendance was much lower, so there was more time to stay and enjoy each place we visited. I don't know if they have areas to eat a lunch. The rain kept us from picnicking. If you do come on a rainy day, I would suggest bringing a plastic bag to carry all of the papers and goodies picked up in various buildings. I had a hard time keeping ours dry. Strollers are probably not allowed in the buildings, but you might want one for the walking if you have a little one.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Lolly The Trolley, Cleveland
I am generally not a city girl, but I love visiting the city. The lights, sounds, tall buildings and even better, exquisite architecture always inspire feelings of awe and wonder. We were able to ride in beautiful trolley cars while our guide explained the history of Cleveland, and how the city planners were responsible for its wide, open streets and sunny sidewalks. Most large cities crowd the streets with tall buildings. Cleveland's founders wanted to keep the sunshine available and it shows as you tour its streets.
As a bonus, the Blue Angels were rehearsing overhead for the upcoming Air Show while we were on our tour, so whenever it got a bit noisy, we would all look to the sky and say "Do you see them?" "Where are they?"
Our particular trolley was being hosted/guided by the company's founder, who was very kind and allowed us all to leave the trolley for a minute at Burke Lakefront Airport in order to watch a group of Blue Angels take off. Inside the airport, we were able to see one of their airplanes up close.
We had a wonderful time, and I plan to go again. I'd like to take a tour of the different ethnic neighborhoods and the West Side Market, which is a tour they offer. Considering the large group that attended, I'll expect to have quite a bit of company with me again, which is wonderful.
Trolley Tours of Cleveland has a wonderful program for your group of any age and size. They are very accomodating. You'll need to pay a deposit when you reserve the trolley, and you can contact them for more info at phone# 1-800-848-0173.
*Baby tip: There are no seat belts if you were wondering, and therefore, no way to attach a car seat. This may affect whether or not you want to bring your little one, since you will actually be driving on regular roads at the usual speeds. I don't believe they've had any accidents, though, so you may just go and have a good time as we did.
All photos taken and provided by one of our youngest trolley riders, Emily S. Great job, Emily!
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Krasco Basket Factory, Coshocton
On February 23, we toured the production facility for Krasco Baskets in Coshocton. This is a very nice little factory, still operated by the original family who began building these baskets. I'm sure you've heard of Longaberger Baskets. Well, these baskets are very similar in style, but with one major difference: all of the baskets are made of recycled materials which do not break down the way most wooden baskets do. Plastic baskets can handle outdoor weather and retain their beauty year after year. 
You might think that plastic baskets look cheaper or less beautiful than the wood, but if you think so, you haven't seen Krasco's baskets. It took some time, but the founder of the company developed with a partner a plastic strip that resembles wood in texture and added some beautiful colors that don't fade in the sun or turn black in the rain. They are often referred to as "basket sleeves" because the outdoor ones are bottomless so that your plant can sit on the ground. They do offer other models of baskets as well as basket mailboxes and birdhouses (my personal favorites).
We were treated fabulously on our tour. The founder of the company actually gave the tour because his son, who usually gives the tours, was sick. After a brief history of the factory and seeing some early examples, we were shown through the warehouse and factory, where workers were busily creating big beautiful baskets. The children got up close and personal with the workers, and were able to take home scraps of the baskets as samples along with an official sample that had 5 basket colors clamped together. As a special bonus, they had a drawing among all of the tour attendees for 4 of their baskets to take home free! I was not expecting such a nice surprise.
You can find more info about the products and where to purchase them by checking out this website Krasco Basket Sleeves. If you're interested in a tour, which was free, call them at 740-623-2953 to schedule.
You might think that plastic baskets look cheaper or less beautiful than the wood, but if you think so, you haven't seen Krasco's baskets. It took some time, but the founder of the company developed with a partner a plastic strip that resembles wood in texture and added some beautiful colors that don't fade in the sun or turn black in the rain. They are often referred to as "basket sleeves" because the outdoor ones are bottomless so that your plant can sit on the ground. They do offer other models of baskets as well as basket mailboxes and birdhouses (my personal favorites).
We were treated fabulously on our tour. The founder of the company actually gave the tour because his son, who usually gives the tours, was sick. After a brief history of the factory and seeing some early examples, we were shown through the warehouse and factory, where workers were busily creating big beautiful baskets. The children got up close and personal with the workers, and were able to take home scraps of the baskets as samples along with an official sample that had 5 basket colors clamped together. As a special bonus, they had a drawing among all of the tour attendees for 4 of their baskets to take home free! I was not expecting such a nice surprise.
You can find more info about the products and where to purchase them by checking out this website Krasco Basket Sleeves. If you're interested in a tour, which was free, call them at 740-623-2953 to schedule.
Monday, February 20, 2006
The Wilderness Center, Stark County
On February 17, we enjoyed a fun field trip/full day of education at The Wilderness Center in Wilmot, Stark County. We split our group into 2 age groups: 9 years and up and under 9 years old to help make the program appropriate for each age group. Our program was called Winter Extravaganza.
Each group spent time in a classroom working on pine cone bird feeders and viewing birds (and deer) at the feeders outside the viewing room, in the planetarium learning about the winter night sky, and on the trail through the woods learning about and viewing the wildlife in the area. We also had time for lunch together.
We spent about 3 hours there learning together. Although the little ones didn't all like the planetarium, and I think some of the older students may have already created pine cone birdfeeders before, we all learned something and had a wonderful time. The hike was also a bit chilly (expected for February) and difficult with a stroller, but worthwhile. My older daughter especially enjoyed the planetarium show and the fossil wall. She came home pointing out constellations that night. She made some new friends and had a great time. My younger daughter was thrilled to make a birdfeeder and also had a lot of fun.
If you are interested in any of their programs, look at their website for more info. The Wilderness Center
They offer numerous programs open to the public as well as the educational programs for groups.
Each group spent time in a classroom working on pine cone bird feeders and viewing birds (and deer) at the feeders outside the viewing room, in the planetarium learning about the winter night sky, and on the trail through the woods learning about and viewing the wildlife in the area. We also had time for lunch together.
We spent about 3 hours there learning together. Although the little ones didn't all like the planetarium, and I think some of the older students may have already created pine cone birdfeeders before, we all learned something and had a wonderful time. The hike was also a bit chilly (expected for February) and difficult with a stroller, but worthwhile. My older daughter especially enjoyed the planetarium show and the fossil wall. She came home pointing out constellations that night. She made some new friends and had a great time. My younger daughter was thrilled to make a birdfeeder and also had a lot of fun.
If you are interested in any of their programs, look at their website for more info. The Wilderness Center
They offer numerous programs open to the public as well as the educational programs for groups.
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