What To Expect

Dear Families,

We're so excited to have you join us for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. To help you prepare, we've put together this guide to ensure your child has the best possible experience.

What to Expect:
Little Hikers Long Island is a fully outdoor program. Our sessions run rain or shine, giving kids the opportunity to experience the magic of all types of weather. The only time we cancel is during dangerous conditions, such as high winds, thunderstorms, or undrivable road conditions.

Experiencing various weather types is an essential part of building resilience and fostering a deep connection to nature. After all, as the saying goes, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!"

Expect your child to have fun, get muddy, and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. We'll be exploring trails, jumping in puddles, and engaging in sensory-rich activities that may leave their clothes looking like they've had a full day of adventure—because they have!

 

What the program will include:

At Little Hikers Long Island, every session is carefully designed to be a fun, enriching, and engaging outdoor experience for children. Combining exploration, physical activity, games, crafts, and even kid-friendly yoga, our program sparks curiosity, promotes creativity, and fosters a love for nature.

Kid-Friendly Hikes

Each session begins with a short, child-friendly hike at West Hills County Park, on the trail that is safe and easy to navigate. These hikes are designed to encourage physical activity while providing countless opportunities for discovery. Along the way, children will explore their surroundings, spotting animal tracks, observing wildlife, and collecting treasures like leaves, rocks, and feathers. The goal is to build confidence and curiosity in a nurturing outdoor environment.

Activities and Exploration

Our sessions are packed with sensory-rich activities that engage all five senses. Kids will touch rough tree bark, listen to birds chirping, smell wildflowers, and use magnifying glasses to observe insects up close. Activities might include:

• Nature scavenger hunts to find items like pinecones, flowers, or uniquely shaped rocks.
• Building mini shelters or fairy houses using sticks, leaves, and natural materials.
• Jumping in puddles and playing in mud to fully embrace the joy of being outdoors.
• Animal tracking or learning to identify local plants and trees.

Kid-Friendly Yoga and Animal Poses

To promote mindfulness and help children connect with their bodies, each session includes playful yoga for young hikers. Children will stretch, move, and imitate animal poses (and sounds) like butterfly and frog jumps. This part of the session improves flexibility, balance, and focus while adding an extra layer of fun to the day.

Games and Crafts

Children will enjoy games and crafts that combine fun with learning. Group games like nature bingo, relay races with natural objects, and storytelling circles about animals make every session dynamic and engaging. Craft activities give kids a chance to express their creativity and include:

• Leaf rubbings or painting with natural materials.
• Creating nature crowns or bracelets using flowers, grass, and twigs.
• Making bird feeders or other small projects using pinecones and natural elements.

The program is designed to help children grow and thrive in meaningful ways. By navigating new challenges in a safe and supportive environment, kids build resilience and develop problem-solving skills. Engaging in activities like hiking, yoga, and outdoor play promotes physical activity, enhancing their coordination, strength, and motor skills. Exploring the wonders of nature sparks curiosity, building a love for learning and a deeper connection to the environment. Completing tasks such as spotting wildlife, creating a nature bracelet, or mastering a yoga pose—boosts their confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, group games and activities encourage teamwork, patience, and effective communication, helping children develop essential social skills.

Watching your child grow in confidence and independence is incredibly rewarding. The program isn’t just fun for kids—it’s a great way for parents to connect with others who share a love for outdoor play and learning. Knowing your child is staying active, building healthy habits, and developing a lifelong appreciation for nature brings peace of mind and happiness for the whole family.

What to Wear:
Dressing appropriately for the weather ensures your child is comfortable and can fully enjoy the experience. Here's a quick seasonal guide:

Spring/Fall:
Waterproof rain jacket or poncho.
Waterproof boots or galoshes.
Layers for fluctuating temperatures.
Bring a change of clothes (including socks).

Summer:
Lightweight, breathable clothing.
Sun hat or cap to protect from the sun.
Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sneakers.
Apply sunscreen and bug spray before arriving.

Winter:
Warm layers, including thermal undergarments.
Waterproof snow jacket and pants.
Insulated snow boots.
Gloves or mittens, hat, and a scarf.

Bring a thermos with warm water or a small snack to keep your child energized.

Additional Essentials:
Extra Clothes: Pack a complete change of clothes in case your child gets wet or muddy.
Water Bottle: Hydration is key, even in colder weather.

Sunblock: Even if it doesn't look sunny, there's a risk to get sunburned 
Bug Spray and Poison Ivy Wipes: Apply bug spray before arriving, and keep wipes handy for cleaning exposed skin after the session.

Other items you may want to bring:
Small Blanket: Bring one for crafts or story time if you'd like.
Backpack: Your child can carry their essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers.
Baby Carrier: For very young children, a carrier can make navigating trails easier.

 

Safety First

Our program is designed with safety in mind, but parents should be aware of potential risks:

Dress your child in bright colors for easy visibility.
Apply sunscreen and bug spray to prevent sunburns and bug bites.
Familiarize yourself with poison ivy identification ( when you register we will send you more information on ticks and how to stay safe)

 

Thank You for Choosing Nature
We want to thank you for giving your child the gift of nature. By allowing them to explore, get dirty, and experience the magic of the outdoors, you're nurturing their curiosity, building resilience, and helping them develop a lifelong connection to the environment.

We can’t wait to see you and your Little Hiker on the trails, rain or shine! Together, let’s create memories, learn about nature, and enjoy the great outdoors—one magical adventure at a time.