Corning Museum of Glass

Just in case I haven't said it before, I believe that field trips are a very important part of every child's education.  In our family, we believe that the ability to take field trips on a regular basis is one of the benefits of homeschooling.  I will admit to being frankly baffled by those families who choose to avoid field trips in favor of more book time at home and view field trips as just a nice little small extra to be added in only when everything else is totally caught up or finished.  I've watched many times as a new interest was sparked by a field trip and a child made huge leaps in a skill after one.  They are also a wonderful way to give your kids inexpensive experiences that would normally not fit into the budget.  I've found educational discounts are often half off or more making the trips very affordable.  We've also been to many free trips.  Think outside the box and make sure to add field trips to your school year.  If for no other reason, the memories are priceless.

Today we visited the Corning Museum of Glass.  Alan and I have been talking about taking the kids to this museum for quite a while and were given the chance when a trip was arranged to see astronaut Cady Coleman talk about her time living on the International Space Station.  Basically two trips in one.

We saw a glass blowing demonstration and learned about the history of glass making.  For a few of the kids, the best part of the trip was probably the ride back to the parking lot on a bus.  I've found that all of my kids have been positively thrilled with bus rides when little. Probably because they always get to see buses on the road, but don't get to ride in them.

There was a lot to see and learn at the museum but I will admit that due to two young ones who were overtired and cranky, we were not able to see everything.  However I think the kids had a great time. 

Children and teens are free at this museum and they offer a military discount making this a very affordable trip.  You can also add in a ticket to an art museum in downtown Corning if you have the time and just ride the free bus shuttle to get there.  We opted out of that this time but might try visiting it if we have another chance to get to that area.