It's the first day of fall!

Happy first day of fall! I absolutely love this time of year. The colors, the smells, the air, mmmm. I feel cozy just thinking about it!

This is Lucy's autumn nature table that I put together for her. A nature table is based on Waldorf teachings, the idea is to give small children the concept of changing seasons and to bring nature indoors. I think it's going to be a fun tradition and I'm looking forward to changing it according to the season! It's something all 3 of us can enjoy in our house. It's right at her level and she likes looking at everything and carrying things around.
I'm learning more about the Waldorf method of teaching and love the focus on nature and the idea of children having more natural and simpler toys. The little wooden squirrel is from Mamaroots on Etsy. Lucy loves carrying it around in the little bag it came with. She even had to bring it with her when Dustin took her outside the other day and wouldn't put it down! I think that natural textures (wool, bark, dirt, feathers, leaves, etc.) are important to children relating to nature and I'm trying to reduce some of Lucy's plastic toys and incorporate more things made of natural materials. I'm not an all or nothing type of person, but I do think integrating some of these concepts into how I parent will make a positive difference. If you think about it, how many times during the day do you touch something that isn't manmade or processed? I was thinking about that the other day, and it's crazy how many things in our home aren't natural! It kind of grossed me out, actually. Even a lot of fabric has polyester blended into it. I'm just starting to realize these things and explore them a little more. I think it's hard trying to learn about a lifestyle that I'm not used to, and I'm excited to change things a little at a time in our house.

Comments

[granolagirl]

Nature tables are so much fun. Ian just loves putting his together and going for nature walks. Lucy will love it! We are exploring Waldorf education and principles ourselves if you need any book recommendations or website info let me know. Happy Autumn!

[holly]

I think it is great that you are always open minded and receptive regarding Lucy's upbringing. All of your time will pay off in the long run for sure. I love seeing kids who are curious and wonder about life and nature, that arent glued to a tv. Not that television should be outlawed, but I think children nowadays need extra care to prevent very bad habits developing.
I was just thinking the other day that every year I get older I become more aware of the seasons changing and more in tune. I think that seasons changing is so magical and gives everyone something to look forward to. Autumn is my favorite, I do love spring because of of cherry blossoms, but autumn I just really love. That is why I got married to Casey on the first day of autumn (I think, or does it change every year?) I just know that it was important to me that it be around fall time. I think when we move soon (!) I will start the whole season alter thing. I think it is a great idea. Anyways, thank you for the inspriration!

[kelly]

that is so great...what a neat idea. i might have to try that! good for you amanda!