Tails & Trails: Early Learning Adventures

Join us on Wednesday mornings for a 10-week adventure that incorporates child-led play, nature exploration, and equine interactions to support early childhood development while strengthening the caregiver-child relationship. Designed for children ages 2–6 and their caregivers, this group is held throughout Hilltop Horizons' barn and nature spaces and is led in partnership with Maggie O'Reilly, MOT, OTR/L of Live Oak Kids, alongside a Hilltop Horizons PATH Intl. equine specialist and trained volunteers.

Who is this group for?

This group is designed for children of all developmental abilities, ages 2–6, who would benefit from:

  • Building social, communication, and early learning skills through play

  • Strengthening motor, sensory, and emotional regulation skills in a natural environment

  • Developing confidence, independence, and problem-solving abilities

  • Exploring and connecting with nature and animals

  • Meaningful one-on-one time with a caregiver in a supportive, engaging setting

Please Note: This is a child-caregiver program - A parent or designated adult must remain with their child throughout the program

The Details

  • Ages: 2 - 6

  • Schedule: Wednesdays from 9:00am - 10:30am, for 10 consecutive weeks

  • Dates: September 9th - November 11th

  • Investment: $450, paid in one or two installments

What to Expect at Tails & Trails

​The group will follow the same general daily rhythm with a new nature or animal-inspired theme each week:

9:00–9:20 AM | Child-Led Nature Exploration
Ease into the morning with free exploration! The Maple Grove (our shady, tree-covered area) will have a swing, and other movement-based, nature-inspired, open-ended activities for children to explore at their own pace

9:20–9:30 AM | Circle Time
Gather together for a hello song, story, and a chance to connect as a group

9:30–9:45 AM | Group Activity
Join in a fun, themed group activity such as a parachute game, group art project, or story walk

9:45–9:50 AM | Head to the Barn
We'll make our way down to the barn together for our ground-based horse activities.

9:50–10:20 AM | Horse Time!
Children will participate in hands-on, unmounted activities with the horses as well as other animal-focused activities

10:20–10:30 AM | Goodbye Circle
We'll come back together to wrap up our morning, share a final song or activity, and say goodbye