First Day of Fall
As summer days begin to feel shorter and you feel that familiar chill in the air, you might start to realize that it is finally time for the start of fall. While you might already be noticing the leaves beginning to change color or that the weather becoming more pleasant and comforting, do you and your family actually know exactly when summer turns to fall?
When Does Fall Start?
This year, the first day of fall will be on September 22, 2014. The Autumn Equinox, when the sun crosses the equator to move from the northern hemisphere to the southern hemisphere, is often considered to be the first day of fall. On this day, both day and night are about 12 hours long.
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Fall Associations
There are many themes and festivals linked to the fall. The most common association is that of the harvest. Interestingly, before the 16th century, this season used to be referred to simply as ‘harvest’. But as people gradually moved to towns and stopped working the fields, the season soon became known as ‘fall’ or ‘autumn’. It is, therefore, considered to be a season of agricultural abundance. Accordingly, it is common for gourds like pumpkins or squash and other agricultural symbols like richly colored corns to be popular seasonal themes when it comes to decorating or planning interactive family activities.
Other fall associations include the festive occasions of Halloween and Thanksgiving! Both holidays have distinct histories that parents, like you, can use as exciting starting points for festive activities and learning tools to keep kids engaged while they begin spending more time indoors.
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Popular Fall Traditions and Activities
One of the first images that come to mind when you think of fall is that of dry leaves falling and filling the yards and the roads. From the first day of fall on through the remainder of the season, you might even see neighborhood kids (and sometimes adults) make piles of these bright dry leaves only to jump through them with absolute delight!
Accordingly, you might want to get your kids into the spirit of things by bringing some of these popular outdoor fall elements indoors. As fall begins, most people put aside their summer wear and decorations and gear up to give their homes that distinct fall look. Consider crafting brightly colored fall wreaths, pumpkins, and decorative vines with your kids to help adorn the doors and interiors of your home.
