Why Join Little Hikers Long Island?
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If you’re considering joining Little Hikers, you may be wondering what a typical class looks like and what your child will actually learn.
Little Hikers is an outdoor nature education program for children ages 2–6, held at West Hills County Park in Huntington, Long Island. Our goal is to help children learn about the natural world through guided outdoor classes while giving families the knowledge and resources to continue learning about nature together.
During each class, children play movement games, practice balance and coordination, and learn about local plants, animals, insects, and seasonal changes through hands-on activities. They build observation skills, learn new vocabulary, and practice speaking as they describe what they see. Each lesson introduces basic science concepts, helping them build a strong foundation for learning science as they grow.
In addition to our weekly outdoor classes, Little Hikers provides free educational resources and printable nature guides to help parents teach their children about nature during everyday walks, backyard play, and family outings.
Children Learn Best Through Real Experiences
Young children are naturally curious. They notice the worm in the soil, the bird flying overhead, the texture of a leaf, and the tiny insects moving across the trail. At Little Hikers, we turn that curiosity into learning. Instead of simply walking past these discoveries, children stop, observe, and explore them. They use tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars, ask questions, and investigate the natural world around them. These experiences help children begin developing important early science skills such as observation, curiosity, and problem-solving.
Over time, parents often notice how children start recognizing things everywhere they go. These moments show that children are not just spending time outside, they are learning to understand nature.
A Structured Educational Nature Program
Each class follows a structured format designed specifically for young children ages 2–6.
Every session includes:
• movement games that help children build balance and coordination
• a short nature lesson introducing the day’s topic
• a guided walk where children observe insects, plants, birds, or seasonal changes
• hands-on exploration using tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars
• a nature craft or activity that reinforces what children learned
This combination of movement, observation, and hands-on learning keeps children engaged while helping them understand the natural world around them.
Learning About the World Where Children Live
One of the most meaningful parts of Little Hikers is that children are learning about the environment right in their own community.
During our classes at West Hills County Park, children may:
• watch ants working together along the trail
• observe butterflies visiting flowers
• listen for bird calls in the trees
• compare leaves from different trees
• search for insects under logs and rocks
• notice seasonal changes in the forest
Because children are learning about nature in the environment where they live, they begin recognizing these things everywhere — at the park, in their backyard, or even on neighborhood walks.
Outdoor Learning Supports Healthy Development
Regular time outdoors supports many areas of child development. Children who spend time exploring nature often develop:
• stronger balance and coordination from walking on uneven ground
• increased curiosity about the world around them
• improved attention and focus
• greater confidence and independence
• a deeper appreciation for living things
Outdoor environments also allow children to move freely, explore safely, and develop physical and emotional resilience.
A Meaningful Experience for Families
Little Hikers is a parent-and-child program, which means caregivers stay with their children throughout the class. This creates a supportive environment where children feel comfortable exploring while parents can watch their child discover new things. For many families, Little Hikers becomes a weekly routine that they look forward to; a chance to slow down, spend time outdoors, and experience nature together.
Children Begin to See Nature Everywhere
One of the most rewarding things parents often notice is how their children begin recognizing nature outside of class. These moments show that children are not just attending a class — they are developing curiosity and awareness that lasts far beyond the trail.
Who Little Hikers Is For
Little Hikers was created for parents who:
• want their children to learn about insects, plants, animals, and weather
• value outdoor experiences for children’s health and development
• want a structured educational program in nature
• want their child to explore, observe, and ask questions about the world
If you believe childhood should include curiosity, exploration, and meaningful time outdoors, Little Hikers may be a wonderful fit for your family.
Join Us on the Trail
Little Hikers Long Island gives children the opportunity to explore the forest, learn about the natural world, and develop a lasting connection to nature. For many families, it becomes one of the most memorable parts of early childhood.
Spots are limited, sign up today!