Seedlings: September 23, 2025
Gathering in the Circle
We began our morning together with a story—When We Gather Together—a gentle introduction to the autumn equinox and the themes of harvest season. The kids listened thoughtfully, already connecting to the idea of cycles in nature and the importance of giving thanks.
Foraging Walk and the Honorable Harvest
With the spirit of harvest in mind, we set off on a foraging walk. The children were introduced to the principles of the Honorable Harvest: greeting the land, asking permission before taking, and giving thanks to the plants and Earth for what was offered. Along the path and down to the Flats, they eagerly noticed ants, bees, and roly-polies busily at work in the flowers. On our way back, a crabapple tree offered up “dragon apples” on the sidewalk—treasures the kids couldn’t resist gathering!
Nature’s Paints
Back at Heron Tree Estates, the children emptied their collections with the same excitement as Halloween night. Using a mortar and pestle, they learned how to grind petals and leaves, mixing them with water to create natural paints. Their sense of wonder at “turning plants into colours” was as bright as the paints themselves.
Free Play Adventures
Free play followed, with each child drawn to their own exploration:
Some experimented with acorns in the mud kitchen, testing whether they floated or sank.
Others relaxed on the tires, enjoying the rhythm of rest.
The rope swing was a popular spot, while the hammock swing became an impromptu trapeze! The kids even lined up on a log to take turns, cheering one another on.
Feathered and Furry Friends
Together we fed the birds and watched with delight as two chipmunks darted in for their share. During snack, I read There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly and 10 Fat Turkeys, which sparked joyful counting from the group. Soon after, we spotted our old friend Chickadee (“cheese-burger!”) and were lucky to see the chipmunk again. The children’s sharp eyes also noticed a massive mushroom growing from a log, and their persistence in trying to knock it loose turned into a lesson in resilience: sometimes we just have to keep bouncing back!
Discoveries and Tool Work
Our curiosity carried us further, uncovering teeny tiny snails—marvels of miniature life. After carefully returning them to their home, the children moved on to tool work. Using saws, they practiced safe handling, teamwork, and problem-solving while bracing logs for cutting.
Closing the Day
We ended the afternoon at the playground, where the kids created leafy crowns and got any remaining energy out playing tag.
Thanks for a great day Seedlings!
