Summer: Expansion and Play
Summer brings with it an expansive energy—longer days, more sunshine, and a chance to be outdoors as much as possible. Your summer rhythm should encourage freedom, play, and exploration. Start the day with early morning outdoor play before the sun gets too hot—whether it’s a trip to the beach, a park, or simply playing in the backyard. Embrace water play, allowing children to connect with this element in fun and creative ways. Meals during this time can be taken outdoors, making picnics part of your family rhythm, and incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables into your menu.
In the heat of the afternoon, slow down with restful activities like reading, handcrafts, or cooling off with quiet water play. Encourage evening routines that still include outdoor elements, like stargazing or evening walks. Summer is also a time for less structure, so be flexible with bedtimes and activities, allowing for spontaneity and freedom while maintaining gentle anchor points in your rhythm, like shared meals and rest times.
Festivals
1. St. John’s Day (Midsummer, June 24): Celebrating the peak of summer with bonfires, music, and outdoor festivities.
2. Summer Solstice (June 21-22): Marking the longest day of the year, often celebrated with outdoor feasts and sunset ceremonies.
3. Lammas (August 1): A harvest festival celebrating the first fruits and grains of the season, often involving bread-making and sharing.
4. St. Peter’s Day (June 29): Traditionally linked to themes of strength, courage, and faith.
Activites
1. Bonfires and fire rituals: Gathering around a fire in the evening to tell stories or sing songs, often around Midsummer.
2. Water play: Playing in pools, rivers, or lakes, celebrating the element of water in all forms.
3. Outdoor picnics: Eating meals outside, connecting with nature.
4. Sun-themed crafts: Creating sun catchers or painting sun symbols to capture the vibrant energy of summer.
5. Harvesting summer fruits: Picking berries or visiting a local farm to gather seasonal produce.
