Elementary Field Trips and Going Outs
Kelly Johnson
Reimagine freedom, spark curiosity, and connect children with their communities, safely and meaningfully.
Going Out is one of the most distinctive and powerful aspects of Cosmic Education - a vision Maria Montessori developed to help children become curious, capable, and connected citizens of the world. It’s more than just a walk outside or a scheduled trip; Going Out is a purposeful act of independence, a real-world extension of the elementary classroom, and a living lesson in responsibility and exploration.
But how can we make this work in today’s world?
In this course by Kelly Johnson, you'll explore the powerful Montessori practice of Going Out as a core element of Cosmic Education. Designed for Montessori guides, school leaders, and homeschool educators, this course unpacks the historical roots and developmental purpose behind Going Out, distinguishes it from traditional field trips, and offers creative, practical strategies for implementing safe, student-led outings in today’s fast-paced world.
Drawing inspiration from both Montessori philosophy and the fields of outdoor and experiential education, Kelly provides globally tested tools and frameworks to help children develop independence, responsibility, and meaningful connections with their communities.
A certificate of completion for 3 hours is provided. Learn more about certificates here.
This course is for you if:
• You want to understand the Montessori roots of “going out” and its essential role in Cosmic Education
• You're seeking practical strategies to make student-led outings safe, realistic, and aligned with your classroom or homeschool setting
• You’re interested in learning from global models rooted in outdoor and experiential education
• You’re ready to equip students with the tools to plan, prepare, and reflect, fostering authentic independence and responsibility
• You’re a Montessori guide, school leader or homeschooler seeking concrete systems and frameworks to support experiential learning in your environment
Course Content
Understanding Going Out, Field Trips, and Going Beyond
Clarify the distinctions between the terms and explore how each of these experiences plays a unique and vital role in Montessori elementary education.
Adapting the Approach Across Contexts
Explore what “going out” can look like in a range of learning environments, from classrooms to homeschools to outdoor programs. Learn how to bring these experiences to life safely and meaningfully, no matter your setting.
Practical Tools for Preparation and Implementation
Get into the day-to-day practices that make “going out” successful. From preparing students to designing your environment, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to bring experiential learning to life.
This course also includes:
-PDF guide with practical strategies for Montessori field trips and Going Out
-Planning templates, checklists, and emergency action tools
-Tips for inclusive, accessible outings and homeschool adaptations
-Ideas for building independence and real-world skills in children
Kelly Johnson
Kelly seeks to guide humans of all ages to slow down and reconnect with their natural world, creatively. An artist, author, nature journaling guide, Montessorian, and children's garden facilitator, Kelly brings a lifetime of creative expression, academic exploration, and hands-on gardening experience to each of her endeavors. With Wings, Worms, and Wonder, Kelly aims to help and inspire humans to creatively connect with the natural world through the arts and gardening at home and school. Visit Wings, Worms, and Wonder: the online home of Kelly’s books, blog, workshops, nature journaling courses, school consultations, and more!
Kelly holds a BFA, MA, and AMS 6-9 certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this course for?
This course is intended for Montessori teachers, administrators, and homeschoolers working with Elementary children ages 6-12.
When does the course start and finish?
This course consists of pre-recorded videos. You will gain access to all the videos as soon as you register. You have access for one year and you may watch at your convenience, as often as you wish, during that time.
Will I receive a Certificate of Attendance?
You can get a certificate of attendance for 3 hours by request. You will need to fill out a feedback form found at the end of the course. You will receive a PDF certificate via email.
IMPORTANT: We recommend confirming with your local licensing agency prior to registering if you are relying on having the certificate approved. Read more about certificates of attendance here.
Is this appropriate for parents?
The principles in this course can certainly be applied by parents, especially in a homeschool setting.
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