The three components of the field trip reinforce concepts learned in each of the other sessions. After a large group orientation, the children are divided into three smaller groups. The groups move round-robin through the three activities (with a break for lunch) throughout the day. The house tour is critical to providing the students with context. Docents introduce the children to the history of Riverside. They also encourage the students to share ideas about what the building and other artifacts displayed in it may reveal about people who lived here in the past. In the process, Riverside reinforces the concept that what is known about the past is based upon interpretations of the artifacts that have survived into the present.

In 2026, Riverside is introducing a new archaeology lab activity. Students are introduced to the processes archaeologists engage in to learn from artifacts that were found during their digs on site. An archaeologist begins the archaeology lab session with a brief interactive introduction to the basic concepts, methods, and tools of archaeology. Students are divided into smaller groups to carefully examine artifacts found at Riverside. Before the session is over, the entire group is reassembled to share findings and review concepts.

“Building Blocks” is an experience that allows participants to take part in the discovery process. The program is giving Riverside a chance to involve students in research critical to interpreting the history of the site. The children gain an appreciation for history and preservation through this exciting, active learning experience. These young people can justifiably feel a sense of pride and ownership in Riverside and their community’s history.