Embracing Shorter Days and Family Traditions

As September ends, the days grow shorter, and the crispness in the air signals that Fall is on its way. The long, lazy days of summer give way to earlier sunsets, cozy evenings, and the stars light up the night sky. In our home, this shift in the seasons is more than just a weather change—it’s a time to celebrate the bounty of the earth and the beauty of togetherness.

Here at school, we embrace the Montessori philosophy, which encourages us to honor nature and its rhythms. In keeping with these values, autumn is a season that invites us to pause, reflect, and enjoy the fruits of the year's hard work, just as nature does. Montessori methods, in their essence, remind us to respect and learn from the natural world, integrating the seasons into our learning and daily lives. It’s a time to connect with our surroundings and to slow down and appreciate the moment.

Welcoming Fall with Family Traditions

One of my favorite parts of Fall is the way it encourages us to gather. Whether it’s sharing a warm meal, telling stories around a bonfire, or spending time in the garden, Fall traditions help us to come together and celebrate the simple joys of life.

In our family, we have a few beloved traditions that mark this season. One that we look forward to every year is our Fall Color Ride through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, we pack up the car and head north. The drive is breathtaking as the trees along the winding roads show off their autumn brilliance. We stop along the way to hike, take pictures, and simply soak in the beauty of nature’s seasonal transformation. The kids love collecting leaves and finding the biggest, brightest ones to bring home. It’s a peaceful, soul-nourishing tradition that connects us with the beauty of this season.

Another favorite tradition is our apple-picking day. We make a whole day of it! We visit a local orchard, where the kids run through the rows of trees, filling baskets with crisp, sweet apples. Afterward, we head home, tired but happy, and spend the evening making homemade applesauce and apple cider. The kitchen smells like cinnamon and cloves, and the laughter of the kids fills the house as they sneak apple slices while we cook.

Montessori-Inspired Activities to Honor the Season

If you’re looking for ways to bring the magic of Fall into your own home, here are some Montessori-inspired activities and traditions to try:

Nature Walks: Take a walk outside and collect leaves, acorns, and pinecones. Let your child observe the changes happening around them. Talk about the different types of trees and animals preparing for winter.
Pumpkin Exploration: Head to a pumpkin patch and let your little ones explore! Let them pick their own pumpkins and use them for sensory activities, carving, or even baking.
Seasonal Art: Encourage children to create art using items they find in nature. Leaf rubbings, acorn crafts, or even making a nature collage are great ways to incorporate Montessori's love of natural materials.
Cooking Together: Involve your children in preparing seasonal meals. Let them peel apples for pies, measure ingredients for soups, or stir the pot as you make hot apple cider. Montessori emphasizes practical life skills, and what better way to teach these than through cooking?

So, whether it’s gathering around the dinner table, exploring the great outdoors, or diving into seasonal crafts, let’s embrace the opportunities that autumn brings. Here’s to a cozy and fulfilling fall filled with memories that will last a lifetime!

-Melissa Wisniewski

LMS Hospitality Steward