Program List

Little Explorer Hikes is a weekly outdoor program for children (ages 2 and up) and their caregiver, designed to spark curiosity and build a deeper connection with the natural world. Guided by Miss Sam, each session takes families on a gentle hike through local trails, where children explore forests, observe wildlife, and discover the changing seasons.

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Along the way, children may enjoy hands-on activities such as a nature scavenger hunts, storytelling, and creative play using natural materials. The program encourages children to ask questions, use their senses, and learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems in a fun, accessible way. ​

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Classes run Fridays at 10am at varying locations within the Canton, Simsbury, Granby, New Hartford, and Barkhamsted areas.

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Woodland Wiggles is a gentle, sensory-rich nature program designed especially for babies and toddlers (ages 2 and under) and their caregiver. Guided by Miss Chelsea, each session invites little ones to explore the natural world through movement, touch, sound, and simple discovery. 

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We may listen to birds, feel different textures, watch light filtering through trees, or enjoy songs and stories inspired by nature. The pace is slow and flexible, allowing children to engage in their own way while building early curiosity, motor skills, and comfort in outdoor environments. 

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 Woodland Wiggles fosters early sensory development, social interaction, and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors -all in a safe, nurturing space.

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Classes run Mondays at 9:30am in Werner's Woods at Roaring Brook Nature Center. 

Forest Academy is a nature-based learning community where home schooled children (ages 3-8) and their caregiver come together once a week for an 8-week session to explore the great outdoors. Through hands-on experiences, kids develop essential outdoor skills, learn about the world around them, and foster environmental stewardship.

Research shows that time spent in nature is vital for developing children—it supports physical health, reduces stress and anxiety, enhances focus and cognitive development, and sparks curiosity and creativity. 

What makes Forest Academy truly unique is the freedom it offers. Children have the space to run, climb, explore, and play freely among the trees, streams, and trails of the forest. This blend of structured learning and unstructured play creates a one-of-a-kind experience that nurtures the whole child. Each weekly gathering provides an opportunity for children to connect with the natural world, build meaningful friendships and develop practical skills that foster confidence and a lifelong appreciation for the environment.