Automobiles Move Students Minds

Students in grades K - 8 apply logic and decision making skills while learning basic mechanics and safe passenger practices at the "Things You Auto Know" field trip, sponsored by a Chicago area Saturn facility.

(Chicago, IL April 2002) A key turns. The click activates the battery. The battery triggers the starter. Spark plugs ignite and gasoline causes an explosion. A car is started and a childs imagination is put in motion.

Kids often imagine themselves driving a car. As they get older they dream about owning their first car. With more and more car accidents involving teenagers each year, it has become imperative that children, at an early age, understand the processes and choices involved in driving or riding in automobiles.    

The Things You Auto Know field trip, hosted by two local Saturn facilities, Saturn of Dundee and Saturn of Schaumburg, is bringing to life lessons in auto-safety and basic mechanics. Created through a partnership with Field Trip Factory, Inc., this interactive field trip gives K-8th grade children an opportunity to apply decision making skills, classroom lessons, and logic in a safe and fun environment.

As they explore the cars on display, examine the labeled parts of the engine on the cut-away car, and spend time interacting with the Saturn Service Department team, the children discover the science and wonder of automobiles," said Mary McHugh, Customer Relations Manager for Saturn. Recognizing that automobiles are part of the daily lives of children, we wanted to create a learning opportunity to provide them valuable safety information."

Children retain 40-60% more when learning is reinforced outside of the classroom. Experiential education is a powerful way to teach kids how to lead safe and healthy lives," said Susan Singer, President and Founder of Field Trip Factory. This is our first year working with Saturn. Their participation has allowed us to provide students with a place to build on their classroom studies and understand the importance of their decisions while also having a good time."

To schedule a Things You Auto Know field trip, or to find out more about other Field Trip Factory field trips on nutrition, fitness, eye care, money management, or animal welfare, call 773-342-9520.