Ladybug Nature Walks (ages 2-6 with adult)

About 

Ladybug Nature Walks are SLOW nature hikes for young children and their caregivers. Kids explore plants, animals, and rocks while building social and motor skills.

Each child borrows a backpack of exploration tools, and Nature Educators lead small groups through engaging nature play activities—like observing plants, digging for worms, catching bugs, using magnifying glasses, collecting leaves, and sensory play. We provide the supplies and guidance, while children follow their curiosity and creativity. 

Learn more about how nature benefits children.

Learn more about "Nature Play."

Sign up for a walk!

We are currently planning winter and spring walks!

If you would like to receive an email notification when new walks are added, sign up here. 

Want to plan a special walk for your preschool, daycare, or homeschool group?  If you have at least six children, please schedule a special walk for your group. 

We schedule programs Tuesday through Friday, between 9:00am and 3:00 pm. 

Fill out this form to request a walk for your preschool, daycare, or group. 

Cost

Walks are $8/child.

Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) believes recreation is for everyone. We know that the price of programs and activities prevents some community members from being able to participate. Sign up for an Access Discount to receive an ongoing discount of up to 90%. No proof of income is required.

Access Discount Information

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What to expect 

• Sign in! When you arrive, you will be greeted by a PP&R staff person with a clip board. Give your name to sign in!
• Casual warm up! There will be a simple warm up activity while we wait for everyone to arrive.
• Divide into smaller groups. At about 10:10, we will ask everyone to divide into smaller groups for exploring; each group will be led by a Nature Educator.
• Opening circle. The Nature Educator will lead an opening circle with some housekeeping information and instructions. Then, we will ask everyone to share their name, and something they hope to see today.
• Borrow your ladybug backpack!  The backpack contains 7 tools for exploring.
• Nature walk with lots of stops. We will guide each group through a few nature activities using simple tools that you can try at home! We will move slowly and follow the interests and observations of the children. Plan to be engaged the entire time! Slow down and get curious along with your child.
• Story time.  We usually read a picture book at the end of each walk. Feel free to bring out the snacks!
• Return your backpack and say goodbye! Each child receives a sticker.

How to prepare

• Dress for the weather. Plan for rain. Bring warm layers and hats. Wear rain boots or shoes that can get dirty.
• Go to the bathroom before the walk. Some parks have bathrooms, and some don't.
• Bring a snack for after the walk. You might even want to stay and play at a nearby playground with new friends.
• No worries! Walks last about an hour, but it is okay if you need to leave early. Just hand us the backpack and you are free to go. We understand that little ones have immediate needs, and that all children have hard days.  Many children simply want to watch and observe for the first few walks. They may not want to talk to the Nature Educators until they are comfortable. This is okay by us! We will accept and engage your child however they show up that day.  

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View full size image of Children playing in the mud.

View full size image of Children walk along the trail with ladybug backpacks.

View full size image of Girl in nature

View full size image of Teacher and child looking at leaf.