Young children aren’t designed to sit indoors for long periods of time. Too much time inside often leads to restlessness, frustration, and tantrums.

Children need movement, fresh air, and opportunities to explore the world around them.
Little Hikers Long Island is a guided outdoor learning program where children move, discover, and learn through hands-on nature exploration at West Hills County Park.

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What Happens During a Class: Classes begin with fun movement games that help children develop coordination and motor skills, and end with giant bubbles because learning should also be FUN!

  • Learn:

    Children learn about insects, animals, plants, trees, soil, and seasonal changes through simple nature exploration

  • Observe:

    Children explore the trail using magnifying glasses and binoculars to look closely at insects, plants, and wildlife

  • Create:

    Children make simple nature crafts inspired by what we discover on the trail
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Why Children Have Tantrums:

Toddlers aren’t supposed to sit still for long periods. Too much time indoors can lead to restlessness, frustration, and tantrums. They need movement, fresh air, and opportunities to explore. Little Hikers provides the outdoor space where children can move, discover, and learn.

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Choose a Little Hikers Program:

Choose a drop-in class or join a session. The full season offers the best value and allows children to experience nature as it changes week to week.

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This Program Is Great for Children Who:

  • Have Lots of Energy:

    Young children need space to move. Outdoor play helps them release energy while building coordination and motor skills.

  • Are Curious About Nature:

    Children who love bugs, animals, plants, and exploring the outdoors will enjoy discovering new things on the trail

  • Struggle to Sit Still Indoors:

    Many toddlers learn best while moving and exploring rather than sitting in one place
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About the Instructor:

Little Hikers is led by Viktoriya Nezhnik, a registered nurse, nature educator, and mother who believes children should spend time outdoors exploring the natural world.

With over 15 years of nursing experience and a minor in Child Psychology from NYU, Viktoriya understands how important outdoor experiences are for children’s development, health, and well-being.
Qualifications:

• CPR, BLS, ACLS & First Aid Certified

• Wilderness First Aid Certified

• Anaphylaxis & Epinephrine Auto-Injector Training

• Outdoor Biological Hazards Training

Teaching Philosophy:

Children learn best when they can move, explore, and observe nature around them.

Exploring nature helps children develop curiosity, confidence, and a love for the outdoors.

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Read Our Blogs to Learn More:

  • Ticks: What Every Family Should Know

    Ticks are common on Long Island, but kids still need nature. Learn simple habits to reduce tick exposure and enjoy the outdoors safely with your family.

    Read 

  • About April Program

    In April, children will explore spring through hands-on learning about growing plants, insects, birds, nests, and pollination while observing the changes happening on the trail.

    Read 

  • Weather Safety Policy

    Little Hikers follows guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and makes weather decisions based on environmental safety conditions.

    Read 
Read more

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