Fall II

Fall is one of the most exciting times to be on the trail because the trail looks different every week! The leaves slowly turn from green to bright yellow, orange, and red. Acorns, pinecones, colorful berries, and interesting seed pods begin covering the trail, so every class gives children a chance to see something new.

We'll search under logs for roly-polies, worms, millipedes and beetles. We'll look for mushrooms growing after rainy days, spider webs covered in morning dew, squirrels collecting acorns, woodpeckers searching for insects, and signs that animals are getting ready for winter.

Children quickly begin recognizing the same trees, logs, birds, and woodland creatures they see each week. That consistency is what helps young children learn. Instead of simply hearing about nature, they experience it over and over again until it becomes familiar.

Throughout the season we'll learn about insects, leaves, trees, seeds, fungi, birds, woodland animals, and how plants and animals prepare for winter. Children use magnifying glasses, binoculars and simple nature tools to observe the forest up close.

Each class includes movement games, nature-based toys and activities, a short educational lesson, a guided woodland hike, and a hands-on craft or activity connected to the weekly theme... and of course... BUBBLES!

This program introduces early science through real experiences in nature while also supporting:

• Language development through new vocabulary and describing observations

• Gross motor skills through hiking, balancing, climbing, and exploring natural terrain

• Fine motor skills through hands-on crafts and activities that help strengthen early writing skills

Most importantly, children develop curiosity, confidence, observation skills, and a genuine connection with the natural world.

This program is perfect for children who:

• Learn best through hands-on experiences

• Are curious about bugs, animals, plants, and nature

• Enjoy exploring, hiking, climbing, and getting a little dirty

Location: West Hills County Park (Melville, NY)

Fall Season (7 Weeks)- Program meets once a week from 10:15–11:30 AM (on Wednesdays or Saturdays)

Wednesdays

October: 28

November: 4, 11, 18 (No class Nov. 25)

December: 2, 9, 16

Saturdays

October: 31

November: 7, 14, 21 (No class Nov. 28)

December: 5, 12, 19

Program Details

• Parent or caregiver must stay for the entire class (registration includes one child with a caregiver)

• All materials are provided.

• Park entrance is free.

• Siblings under 2 who are not participating in crafts may attend for free.

Completed registration required: Registration

No refunds. Make-up sessions may be available if space allows.

If you would like to preorder a shirt and pick it up during class, shirts are $15 and available in sizes 2T–5T: White Bug Shirt, White Bird Shirt, or Yellow Forest Shirt.

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