Little Hikers Long Island – Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Little Hikers Long Island?
Little Hikers Long Island is a fully outdoor educational nature program for children ages 2–6 with a caregiver. Children learn about insects, animals, plants, weather, and seasonal changes through guided lessons, hands-on exploration, movement, and nature-based crafts at West Hills County Park.
Is this just free play or wandering around in the woods?
No. While outdoor free play has many benefits, Little Hikers is a structured educational nature program.
We begin with movement games such as stepping stones, mini agility activities, pop-and-catch, and bean bag toss. Then we gather for a short nature lesson where children learn about the day’s topic, such as insects, animals, plants, or weather.
After that, we go on a guided walk where children use tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars to observe what we learned about in nature. We finish with a hands-on activity or nature craft connected to the topic so children can reinforce and extend their learning.
This program is designed for parents who want their children to learn about nature in a meaningful, hands-on way while also benefiting from time outdoors.
What age group is Little Hikers for?
Little Hikers is designed for children ages 2–6 with a caregiver.
If your child is slightly younger or older and you feel they would enjoy the class, they are welcome to join. One of the most special parts of the program is seeing children of different ages learn together. Older children often enjoy helping and taking on small leadership roles, while younger children learn by watching and exploring alongside them.
What if my child doesn’t want to participate or has trouble focusing?
That is completely normal for young children. Little Hikers is designed for ages 2–6, and children participate in different ways. Some jump right in, while others prefer to observe first and join when they feel comfortable.
Because this is a parent-and-child class, there is no pressure. Over time, most children naturally become more confident, more curious, and more excited to participate.
What if my child cries or wants to leave during class?
That is also completely normal, especially for younger children or children trying something new.
Parents stay with their child throughout the class, so children can participate at their own pace. Some children need time to watch before joining in, and that is perfectly okay. Many children become much more comfortable after a class or two once they learn the routine and feel familiar with the environment.
My child has never done circle time before. What if they’re not ready?
That’s okay. Circle time is short and interactive for young children.
On colder days we may stand and move, and on warmer days we may sit. If a child prefers to stand nearby or briefly explore the game area, that is fine as long as they are not disrupting the group. I encourage parents to stay engaged and model excitement, because children often become interested when they see their parent enjoying the experience too.
Will my child learn something?
Yes. Little Hikers is designed to give children real early science learning in nature.
Children learn about insects, animals, plants, weather, and seasonal changes in the environment where they actually live. Each class includes a lesson, guided observation, hands-on exploration, and an activity or craft connected to the topic.
Many parents are surprised by how quickly their children begin recognizing birds, flowers, bugs, and seasonal changes they see on the trail, in the park, and even in their own backyard.
Where are the sessions held?
Classes are held at West Hills County Park, Long Island, NY. The exact meeting location and directions are emailed after registration.
Do parents need to stay during class?
Yes. Little Hikers is a Mommy & Me / caregiver-and-child program, so a parent or caregiver stays with the child for the full session.
This helps children feel secure, supported, and ready to explore.
Is the trail stroller friendly?
Yes it's stroller friendly.
We walk at a slow pace with many stops to observe nature. The trail is easy for young children, but it includes uneven ground and is better suited for walking than for strollers.
What should I bring?
Please bring:
comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty
closed-toe shoes
a water bottle
sunscreen and insect repellent when appropriate
a change of clothes on drizzly or muddy days if needed
Children explore, dig, observe, and create, so it is always best to dress for the mess.
I’m worried about ticks. Is it still safe?
This is a very common concern for families on Long Island.
Ticks are something to be aware of, but they should not keep children indoors. They are not only found on trails, but also in backyards, grassy parks, and gardens. The key is to be informed and take simple precautions.
During Little Hikers, we stay on established trails and open areas and avoid tall grass and brush whenever possible. Wearing light-colored clothing, long socks, and using repellent can help reduce the chance of ticks even more. It is also important to do a daily tick check after spending time outdoors. Many families also find it helpful to use a lint roller before getting into the car and shower after outdoor play.
With simple precautions, families can enjoy the many benefits of outdoor learning safely.
What safety measures are in place?
Safety is a top priority at Little Hikers. The lead instructor is CPR and First Aid certified. Families also receive educational information after registration about outdoor safety topics such as ticks and poison ivy.
Classes are structured, caregiver-supported, and designed to give children a safe and positive experience outdoors.
Can I try a class before committing to the full program?
Yes, drop-in classes are available when space allows. Please check the current program dates for drop-in availability, as spots are limited: Program
What if my child misses a class?
If your child misses a class due to illness or another unexpected reason, makeup classes may be available if space allows. Please let me know in advance whenever possible, and I will do my best to help.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Little Hikers is a fully outdoor program and runs in most weather conditions. If the weather is unsafe, such as heavy rain, strong winds, extreme temperatures, or unsafe driving conditions, class will be rescheduled.
If you cannot attend the rescheduled class, please reach out and I will do my best to move you to another available class. (please see our weather policy for more information)
Can my child attend class if they are sick since the program is outdoors?
To help protect all participating families, children and caregivers who are ill should not attend class. Please do not come to Little Hikers if your child or accompanying adult has a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, a contagious illness, or symptoms such as a persistent cough, significant runny nose, sore throat, or is otherwise not feeling well enough to participate comfortably.
Participants should be fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication before returning to class. If illness symptoms develop during class, Little Hikers reserves the right to ask the family to leave for the wellbeing of the group.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping maintain a healthy environment for all families.
Can I get a refund if plans change?
Pop-up programs are special events and are not eligible for refunds or make-ups
Make-ups apply only to regular classes.
If you accidentally register for the wrong program, please contact me within 24 hours of booking, and I will happily help update or cancel your registration.
Because park permits must be reserved in advance for each participant and class sizes are limited, registrations are non-refundable once the permit for your spot has been reserved. However, my goal is always to help families enjoy the program, so if something unexpected comes up, please reach out and I will do my best to help move you to another class whenever possible.
Do I need to pay for a baby sibling?
No. A sibling under age 2 who is not participating in crafts or activities may attend free when an older child is enrolled.
How much does the program cost?
Program cost depends on the season and session you select. Pricing is for one child and a caregiver together. Full-session options offer the best value for families who want a consistent, enriching learning experience.
Why is the program fully outdoors?
Because children learn better when nature is the classroom.
Outdoors, children can see, hear, touch, and experience what they are learning about in real life. Instead of only hearing about birds, insects, plants, soil, or weather, they observe them directly. This makes learning more meaningful, memorable, and exciting.
Outdoor learning also supports children’s physical health, confidence, resilience, and connection to the natural world.
What are the benefits of the program?
Little Hikers helps children:
-learn about insects, animals, plants, weather, and seasonal changes
-build curiosity and early science thinking skills
-strengthen balance, coordination, and confidence on uneven ground
-develop comfort and resilience outdoors
-form a deeper connection to nature and love for learning
Many families return month after month, and I love hearing parents say that Little Hikers has become their special “mommy and me,” “daddy and me,” or “grandma/grandpa and me” time. There is something so special about slowing down together to listen to birds, watch a robin hopping through the grass, or laugh as your child holds a wiggly worm for the very first time. These are the small moments that become lifelong memories for both you and your child.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up directly through the website for the session that works best for your family.
Can I save a spot and pay later?
No. Because spots are limited, a child’s place is only held once the program is booked.
Is shipping free for Little Hikers shirt purchases?
Yes, shipping is free on all Little Hikers clothing.
Still have questions? Feel free to send us a message. We're always happy to help parents decide if Little Hikers is a good fit for their child.
Send us an Email: info@littlehikerslongisland.com