The Winter Solstice. 2024 December 21st - What is it?

 

It’s the shortest day of the year—but also brings the promise of more daylight ahead.

For all of us living in the Northern Hemisphere (above the Equator, like the US, winter is a season of cold, and dark days. Brr! But if winter lots of snow pull out the sleds!

Fun Fact

·        Changing of Fall- to Winter, is ‘Winter Solstice.’

·        In the United States, winter lasts about 90 days,

·        With that information scientists often tie it to the calendar,

·        Then winter falls during in late December, January, February, and the early part of March.

Three engaging Activities for kids to celebrate Winter Solstice on

December 21, 2024

1. Winter Solstice Storytelling & Hot Cocoa

• Materials: A cozy setup with blankets, a fire (real or electric), and hot cocoa supplies.
• Activity: Share Winter Solstice stories, myths, or legends from different cultures, like Norse, Native American, or Celtic traditions. Kids can also create their own "longest night" story.
• Educational Angle: Explore how the Winter Solstice has inspired cultural traditions worldwide and its connection to the natural world.

2. Create a Solstice Lantern

Kids can make lanterns using mason jars, tissue paper, and LED tea lights. Encourage them to decorate the jars with winter-themed designs, like stars, snowflakes, or pine trees, to symbolize bringing light into the darkest night of the year.

Happy Holidays to you and your Family!