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The fall equinox occurs each year on September 22 or 23, marking the time when day and night are nearly the same in length. This happens when the sun is positioned directly above the equator, allowing both Northern and Southern Hemispheres to receive equal amounts of sunlight.
In the Northern Hemisphere, equinox means the start of autumn when leaves change color and the weather cools down. From now until December, the days will gradually grow shorter, and nights will become longer until winter solstice brings the shortest day of the year.
This season is full of visible changes that can prompt learning and curiosity in children. Take a walk through nature and notice as chlorophyll breaks down in leaves, it creates vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Seasonal activities like apple picking (August-October) or pumpkin harvesting (September-October) are enjoyable ways to recognize and celebrate the signs of fall.
As temperatures begin to drop, we adjust with warmer layers of clothing and spending more time indoors. Encourage children to notice how animals are making changes too. Fall is a great time to explore how squirrels gather acorns, birds migrate south, and bears prepare to hibernate. Take a nature walk and look for signs of animals getting ready. Collect natural materials for fall themed crafts and science centers.
Investigate how sunlight changes throughout the season by tracking sunrise and sunset times over a two-week period. Create a visual chart to observe how the days gradually become shorter. Use this as an opportunity to build on children’s understanding of the Earth’s movement in space and our place in the solar system. For added enrichment, try tracing partner shadows at different times of day or make a simple sundial to see how the sun’s position affects light.
Fall has special significance in many cultures through holidays and traditions. Learn about a fall holiday that is new to you and share what you discover. Celebrations like: Moon Festival, Diwali, Día de los Muertos, Sukkot, Oktoberfest (and more) offer meaningful ways to learn about others, celebrate diversity, and develop a global mindset.
Tie your fall explorations together with a Harvest Celebration featuring apple themed games, crafts, songs and books. Encourage children to share their own seasonal stories. Autumn is a season full of natural beauty, scientific exploration, and fun traditions. Engage kids with investigations and hands-on learning during this vibrant time of year.
