News & Columns > Michael P. Neufeld > Exploring the Forest with Kids July 18

Exploring the Forest with Kids July 18

Children's Forest Visitor Center

By Michael P. Neufeld
Friday, July 18, 2008

Running Springs, CA — "Rabbits Hop, Snakes Slither and Birds Fly" is the theme of the next Hikes for Tykes program offered by the San Bernardino National Forest Association (SBNFA).

"Doing the Locomotion" will take place July 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Children's Forest Visitor Center in Running Springs. This fun, interactive program is designed specifically for toddlers (ages 2-5 and their parents) and builds on their natural curiosity of the world around them.

Doing the Locomotion will take place Friday (July 18) from 10 a.m. to noon at the Children’s Forest Visitor Center in Running Springs as part of the Hikes for Tykes program. (Photo by SBNFA.)

"Hikes for Tykes gives young children the opportunity to explore the forest in new ways," explains SBNFA program coordinator Alison Bates.

SBNFA is offering Hikes for Tykes programs throughout the summer and all will include an interactive lesson on the subject, a short guided hike investigating the topic of the day and a related craft to take home.

"Doing the Locomotion" (July 18) looks at the many different ways animals can move from slithering, hopping, flying and jumping to standing completely still. The next summer program is "Over the Rainbow" (August 8) and connects the colors of the rainbow to the hues found in the forest. "Sounds Around Us" (September 19) will help children listen for the chirps, hoots, howls, ribbits, and buzzes they can only hear in the forest.

This program has a $5 materials fee per child and space is limited to 15 participants so reservations are recommended. Contact Shelly Sidley at (909) 382-2600 x4024 or visit the SBNFA webpage for details.