Parents & Tykes Hike - Thanksgiving Weekend Edition
This is a free hike meetup for kiddos 0-5 years old and their parents/caregivers. We'll meet on the grass next to the parking lot closest to Kean Ave at the Palos Park Woods North trailhead. After a welcome and brief round of intros, we'll head west on the trail across Kean Ave around 9:40am for a relaxed, meandering, out-and-back tyke-paced hike. After the hike, feel free to hang out for a BYO picnic or snack to continue the connecting and fun.
Ages: 0-5 years old with a parent/adult caregiver
Cost: Free, limited spots
Tickets: Reserve yours on Eventbrite via the button below
Other Notes/Tips:
Baby carriers are recommended over strollers on this trail.
Older siblings are welcome, but we'll be going at a toddler-to-preschooler-pace.
Porta-potties are available at this trailhead.
Family Adventure in Mindful Movement (7-14 Year Olds)
Studies show that kids and adults alike can benefit from being in nature and exploring mind-body movement.
This one-of-a-kind, multi-generational program is designed to help families to slow down and connect by experiencing nature and movement together. A guided walk through the woods with elements of Tai Chi and family forest bathing will guide kids and their parents or caregivers through a series of sensory and gentle movement adventures in nature.
We will explore a combination of trails, glades, and meadows, with a total distance of no more than one-half mile at a gentle pace, with several stops for activities.
This program is designed for families with children aged 7 to 14 years. At least one adult caregiver must actively participate along with the child.
Ages: 7-14 years old with adult
Tickets: $36 per adult + child pair ($29 for Arboretum members)
Parents & Tykes Hike - Last One of 2025!
This hike meetup is for kiddos 0-5 years old and their parents/caregivers. We'll meet at the big wooden chair outside of the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center for an introduction by one of the Center's naturalists, followed by a relaxed, meandering toddler-led hike on the Farm Pond Trail. After the hike, we'll reunite with the Center's naturalist for the chance to meet a few critters followed by an opportunity to connect over a BYO snack and/or picnic.
Ages: 0-5 years old with a parent/adult caregiver
Cost: Free, limited spots
Tickets: Reserve yours on Eventbrite via the button below
Other Notes/Tips:
Strollers are welcome, though baby carriers might be easier if the trails are wet.
Older siblings are welcome, but we'll be going at toddler-pace.
Indoor bathrooms are available inside the nature center.
Picnic tables available.
https://fpdcc.com/places/locations/little-red-schoolhouse-nature-center/
Parents & Tykes Nature + Music Connection
Strengthen your bond and have fun with your little one in this outdoor music and nature connection program co-led by Angie Pope of Miss Angie’s Music and Chelsea Hanson, certified Family Forest Therapy Guide.
This one-hour program is designed for children aged 6 months to 5 years old and their parent/caregiver(s). Additional children under the age of 6 months are welcome to join at no cost.
It will be held at the Children’s Forest at Lake Katherine Nature Center in Palos Heights and will include music inspired by our surroundings and gentle guided activities to help you tune into nature in playful partnership with your child.
Please bring a blanket to sit on.
This program is held entirely outdoors. In the case of inclement weather, participants will be notified of event cancellation and offered the choice of a rain date or a refund.
Ages: 6 months to 5 years old with a parent or caregiver
Tickets: $22 per adult + child pair, $8 for additional child, children under 6 months are free
Calm Roots: Preparing for Parenthood in Nature
Tap into the healing powers of nature, mindfulness, and community as you begin your parenting journey. This unique 90-minute program blends gentle, nature-based grounding exercises with practical tools to help you cultivate calm, presence, and resilience as you prepare to welcome your child.
Co-led by Chelsea Hanson, certified Family Forest Therapy guide, and Kristine Cain, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), you'll engage in slow, mindful forest bathing practices designed to reduce stress and deepen your connection with the natural world. Through guided sensory experiences, breathing exercises, and gentle movement, you'll learn to regulate your nervous system and find peace in the present moment.
Learn how our nervous system responds to stress and change, and explore evidence-based techniques to build emotional regulation skills that will serve you throughout pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. We’ll discuss practices for managing anxiety, creating calm in chaos, and fostering secure attachment with your baby.
This workshop is designed for all expecting parents, including co-parents, adoptive parents, and other soon-to-be caregivers of babies. No previous experience necessary.
This program takes place entirely outdoors at Lake Katherine Nature Center. Please dress for the weather and bring water. In the case of inclement weather, registered participants will be offered the option of a rain date or refund.
Light snacks and beverages will be provided.
Ages: Adults only
Tickets: Pay what you can, suggested donation of $10