WILD CHILD: Be Inspired by Autumn
A Wild Child program facilitator examines a scull found by the children with a preschooler.
Autumn is truly one of the most amazing times to take children outside. It may be cold and wet, but the opportunities for deep play and learning are just waiting to be noticed. (Don’t worry, we have lots of tips for staying dry and warm so you can enjoy your time outside).
As the leaves fall and the natural world prepares for the winter, we see the play change in our programs. The big play of summer (fort building, pond splashing, field running) is replaced by the meditative play of autumn. Leaves and logs are moved to discover the secrets underneath. Late apples share a special sweetness that surprises and delights us. Rain drops change the world creating puddles and streams along the ground which we can follow and splash in.
A toddler points to a hollow in the fallen log where he has hidden several fallen apples that he collected.
This time of year is quieter. Many birds have flown south, animals are focused on winter preparation, and the leaves don't rustle as loudly in the wind. We can hear the rustle of a squirrel bounding through dry leaves, an apple bouncing off branches as it falls, and the sounds of friends hiding behind a tree.
Without fail this is the time of year parents leave our programs saying ‘i feel so calm’, ‘this was so peaceful’.
If you want to enjoy this magic, but find the fear of the chill or wet holding you back try this.
A mother and young child sit amongst fallen apples, enjoying tasting the sweet treat.
15 minutes towards feeling confident and having fun outside:
Commit to just 15 min of playing near your home. Find some grass, a puddle, or a forest and set a timer for 15 min. When time is up go inside, change into warm cozy, dry clothes and enjoy a warm drink and snack. Then reflect:
What did you learn? Do your hands get cold? Is your coat amazingly warm, but your toes got wet? Does your child LOVE to sit in the puddles but now they're soaked?
What did you love? Was the air fresh? Did your child giggle and laugh? Did you notice something new?
What will you change? Warmer or waterproof mitts? Wool sock or warmer boots? Rain pants or a rain suit next time?
By asking these 3 simple questions you take control and empower yourself to make each experience better and more fun. You notice the hard, the good, and plan for the future. You can do this with older children too, to help them start to understand what they need to enjoy their time outside.
If you find yourself stuck with something, simply reach out. One of our favorite things is helping families discover what will help them have success outside in all weather.