Join WildRoots and Westerly Land Trust for monthly Wonder Walks, a guided family hiking series designed to spark curiosity and nurture a lifelong love of nature. Our partnership blends playful discovery with embedded teaching, helping children build knowledge naturally as they explore. By connecting families to the land and encouraging stewardship, we hope to inspire the next generation to care for—and protect—the wild places around them.
Each session invites children and their families to slow down, look closely, and discover the magic of the natural world together. Every month features a new theme and a new Westerly Land Trust property, giving young explorers the chance to get to know their local environment in a meaningful and memorable way.
January's theme is Feathered Friends and will be held at Grills Preserve. Join us as we search for feathers, tracks, nests, and other clues that reveal which birds call our preserve home. Along the way, young naturalists will practice careful observation, deepen their connection to the winter landscape, and uncover the hidden stories carried on the wings of local birdlife.
For more information and to register, click here.

A Special WildRoots Program with Laura from Little Stories That Stick!
Led by early childhood educator and storyteller Laura Shea, this event invites families into a joyful morning of stories, play, and learning together in nature!
First, children will gather for an interactive storytelling session (and maybe even some storyacting, depending on the group!) where connection takes center stage. These playful, participatory stories invite little ones to listen, wonder, and step into the story themselves.
While the kids play, parents and caregivers will enjoy a practical, encouraging training on early literacy and play. You’ll learn how storytelling and play naturally build the foundations of reading and writing—without adding more to your plate.
This program is designed for children ages 0–5 (with space for older homeschool siblings too!) and their caregivers. Come ready to play, connect, and discover how powerful stories can be.
