Barn Sanctuary Field Trips
Field trips at Barn Sanctuary offer a unique experience for children in 4th-8th grades to view our rescued animal residents up close, tour the grounds and facilities, and connect with our mission to create a safe haven where each individual animal is treated with empathy and compassion.
Children will hear age-appropriate stories about the animal residents, how they came to arrive at Barn Sanctuary, and their subsequent care. They will learn from our staff and volunteers how the residents live day-to-day and the unique needs of their species. A number of the residents have special needs that will provide perspective on inclusivity and the value of seeing individuals beyond their physical capabilities. Children will learn facts about the environmental impact of consuming animal products for human food.
Information and Tips
- Field trips are offered May through mid-June on Wednesday mornings 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Open to classrooms in 4th-8th grades with a maximum of 30 students
- One teacher and three chaperones are required
- The cost is $10 per child and chaperone. There is no charge for teachers or aides. Payment may be mailed in ahead of time or brought the day of the field trip.
- Field trips begin in our century old barn with a video introduction to our animals, followed by a guided tour of our grounds and facilities where children will see where our residents live, learn facts about their natures, and understand how they are cared for by our staff and volunteers. The day culminates with a game and a snack.
- Please bring a plant-based snack for each student (see approved snack list below.)
- All field trips are conducted in an outside setting, please wear closed toed shoes (boots are best!) and weather appropriate clothing. Keep in mind it can often be muddy at Barn Sanctuary so dress accordingly.
- Please inquire about special needs. We want our visitors to have a positive experience and will do our best to accommodate all needs. Our field trips will include walking on dirt roads and rough terrain. An ADA compliant portable bathroom is available.
- Barn Sanctuary’s field trips meet several Michigan State Standards in Science, Health Education, and Social Studies. Click here to view specific standards for different grade levels.
- Cancelation Policy: If you should need to cancel please provide notice at your earliest convenience and a refund will be issued if the field trip cannot be rescheduled. In the rare event that Barn Sanctuary must cancel, we will give notice at the very earliest opportunity and will provide a full refund if the field trip cannot be rescheduled.
- Ready to book your field trip? Fill out the application form here.
- Need more information? Contact fieldtrips@barnsanctuary.org
Because our sanctuary consists of rescued neglected or abused farm animals, we kindly request that you bring only plant-based (vegan) snacks while visiting with us. Please refrain from foods with animal products such as meat, cheese, or eggs. Please also refrain from bringing nuts of any kind due to allergy concerns.
Barn Sanctuary approved snacks:
- Fresh or Dried Fruit or Berries of any kind
- Dairy Free Guacamole and Vegan Whole Grain Crackers
- Edamame
- Roasted Chick Peas
- Vegan Rice Cakes and Avocado
- Hummus and Vegetables (ie: carrots, cucumber, celery, radishes)
- Vegetable Salad with Dairy Free Dressing
- Bean Dip with Vegan Whole Grain Pita
- Baked Veggie Chips
- Seaweed Crisps
