The Tale of Winter
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In Winter we find serenity.
Storms brew skies with grey ominous clouds, thunder crashes and rain pours. Homes creak and animals hide. When the storm stops, look for what you see happening in-between. You'll find moments of stillness and silence. There is rest and respite. Winter can be a time of nurturing. |
My breath
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In and out,
fast or slow, I feel my breath, but can't see it go. When winter arrives my breath comes alive In and out, fast or slow, In the cold winter air My breath is there! |
Air is a mystery. Wind helps us feel it's presence. In Winter we have a chance to see it and play with it. Take a moment in the mornings or evenings to acknowledge the cold air. Breathe deep and see the cold air interact with your warm breath.
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Awaken Song
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There is magic in Winter. Some trees and animals hibernate. At the end of Winter, as the days begin to grow longer, we see the Earth awakening once again.
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Winter Facts
Winter is one of the four seasons along with spring, summer, and autumn.
- Winter is the coldest season.
- In some places snow falls in the Winter
- Every snowflake has six sides.
- The sun looks bigger in the Winter.
- Trees in colder climates stop growing in the Winter, trees in Australia grow more.
- Nights are longer in the Winter.
- Some animals hibernate in the Winter.
- When it is winter in the Southern Hemisphere, it is summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, winter months include December, January, and February. In the Southern Hemisphere, winter is in June, July, and August.
Doe, a deer, a female deer
Story of the Doe Deer
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The image of Santa being pulled by reindeer in a sleigh is a Christmas favourite.
Do you know all the names of the reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixon... they are all male reindeers! The truth is, male reindeer lose their antlers in winter. By mid-winter it is the female deer, the doe, that lead their herd safely through winter. Ancient cultures used to honour the female deer as a deity, a Goddess. She was the “life-giving mother”, the leader of the herds upon which they depended for survival, and they followed the reindeer migrations for milk, food, clothing and shelter. During solstice ceremonies would be held in honour of the Deer Mother of old. It was said she would ride into the sky and tangle the light from the sun and moon into her antlers and bring it back to Earth again. And so, days would grow longer. |
Winter around the world
- The word “winter” was derived from the Germanic word "wentruz," that means wet or wind.
- The First Nation Kwakiutl people of British Columbia take the names of their ancestors at the beginning of winter as they believe it will protect them from bad spirits.
- In Japan, people have a hot bath with citrus fruits, known as "yuzu." It welcomes the winter and protect them from colds.
- Dongzhi meaning winter arrives, in China is celebrated during Winter Solstice. Chinese people usually cook tang yuan or glutinous rice balls in sweet broth and meat-stuffed dumplings.
- Shab-e Yalda was an ancient Iranian winter festival. It means Night of Birth, where they celebrated the triumph of sun god Mithra. During the longest night of the year, Iranians burnt fires to scare bad spirits and read poetry to celebrate the night.
- Winter Solstice signifies the beginning of the year for the Zuni people of New Mexico. They do a ceremonial dance known as Shalako.
Winter Solstice
The shortest day of the year is called winter solstice. Solstice means sun.
Each year the solstice falls between 20th-22nd June for the southern hemisphere, for the northern hemisphere between 20th-22nd December.
Solstice happens because the earth is slightly tilted at 23 degrees in space, rather than the North Pole being exactly at the top and the South Pole being exactly at the bottom. The light from the Sun travels the shortest path on that day, therefore winter solstice has the shortest day and the longest night.
Each year the solstice falls between 20th-22nd June for the southern hemisphere, for the northern hemisphere between 20th-22nd December.
Solstice happens because the earth is slightly tilted at 23 degrees in space, rather than the North Pole being exactly at the top and the South Pole being exactly at the bottom. The light from the Sun travels the shortest path on that day, therefore winter solstice has the shortest day and the longest night.
The Magic of Winter
Winter King
The Snow Queen by Charles Robinson
Stonehenge UK
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Folklore tales tell the story of Winter representing the death and rebirth of the year, reflecting the death and rebirth of the Winter King. He is often the partner of the Great Goddess, Mother Earth.
The rebirth of the King is on Solstice, days grow longer and as his strength returns, the seasons turn from winter to spring. Solstice celebrations of the ancient world include:
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The Winter faerie
The Winter faerie
The Winter faerie is as stunning as she is haunting. She often has icicles dangling from her hair. Her skin is pale, almost a shade of blue. Her eyes glitter like ice and as she talks you'll see swirls of mist coming from her mouth and nose. She has survived many winters on her own, and therefore has become a force of nature. She is winter.
She is harsh, cold and strong. People have called her, "not nice," because she doesn't spend her time offering her service to people. Instead her service is to nature. She has no interest in being liked.
However she is not mean and she doesn't hold a grudge. Her task is grand, she is awake when the Earth can be at its harshest. She needs to watch the turning of the season as it crosses the solstice threshold.
The winter faerie shows resilience when all else seems lost. She works dutifully at tasks that must be done, knowing it's for the greater good, not for the recognition of others. She has hope that Spring will return one day, and when it does, then she will rest.
If you want to call on the Winter Faerie for help to finish tasks that must be done. To stand strong in something you believe in, even if others don't believe in it. To find purpose when you can't see any. Then go outside when the sun is rising, breath deep the cold winter air and whisper your wishes into the mist.
She will hear your call.
She is harsh, cold and strong. People have called her, "not nice," because she doesn't spend her time offering her service to people. Instead her service is to nature. She has no interest in being liked.
However she is not mean and she doesn't hold a grudge. Her task is grand, she is awake when the Earth can be at its harshest. She needs to watch the turning of the season as it crosses the solstice threshold.
The winter faerie shows resilience when all else seems lost. She works dutifully at tasks that must be done, knowing it's for the greater good, not for the recognition of others. She has hope that Spring will return one day, and when it does, then she will rest.
If you want to call on the Winter Faerie for help to finish tasks that must be done. To stand strong in something you believe in, even if others don't believe in it. To find purpose when you can't see any. Then go outside when the sun is rising, breath deep the cold winter air and whisper your wishes into the mist.
She will hear your call.
Winter Songs and Poems
Now Winter begins
Now Winter Begins
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by Jean Warren
Into their hives the busy bees crawl. Into the ant hills, go ants one and all. Caterpillars too, have hidden their heads, Safely spun in their snug little beds. The possums have all climbed to their holes in the trees. The bird nests are empty, no chicks can we see. The leaves have all blown away on the wind Announcing to all – Now winter begins! Fires are built in the hearths of homes. Hats are knitted and coats are sewn. Harsh winds blow all through the night. Lights all flicker, what a sight! Everyone waits for the first sight of snow, Then down it comes, soft and slow. The world is quiet, the world is white Winter is here, a beautiful sight! |
Pygmy possum
Pygmy Possum
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Here is a tree-hole.
(Bend fingers on one hand) Inside is a Possum. (Put thumb inside fingers.) See she comes out (Pop out thumb) When Banksia blossoms. She stays out all summer In sunshine and heat. She hunts in the bush (Mimic picking and eating berries) For berries to eat. When snow starts to fall. (fingers fluttering moving side to side) She hurries inside (Bend fingers of one hand) her warm little home And there she will hide. (Put thumb inside fingers.) Snow covers the ground (Place one hand over the other.) Like a fluffy white rug. Inside Possum sleeps (pretend to be sleeping) All cozy and snug. |
wood chopping
Wood Chopping
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(Standing Action Rhyme)
We are working, working hard! Chopping firewood in the yard. (Stomping feet moving around in a circle) Hold the axe, grip it tight, (Hold clenched hands togehter in front as if holding an axe) Lift it up with all your might… (lift “axe” above head) Chopping, chopping, chop, chop, chop! (Bring clenched hands down on each “chop”) Merrily the pieces drop (Clench both fists and roly-poly them round each other) Now a bundle we shall tie (imitate) and put it in the shed to dry. (imitate) |
Winter
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Winter(Standing Action Rhyme)
The day is cloudy and the wind is bold. Dress up warmly, you mustn't get cold! Put on your coat and zip it up tight, put on your left boot, put on your right. Put on your scarf and put on your hat, put on your mittens and clap-clap-clap! Go outside and play and play. Come in again, and then we'll say- Take off your coat that was zipped up tight, take off your left boot, take off your right. Take off your scarf, take off your hat, take off your mittens, and then take a nap! |
King winter and Jack Frost
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King Winter(from Wynstones Press "Winter” book)
King Winter now is in the land, he reigns with cold and freezing hand. He makes Jack Frost touch nose and toes, and gives our cheeks a shining glow Jack FrostWhere did you get that little red nose?
Jack Frost kissed it I suppose. He kissed it once. He kissed it twice. Poor little nose it's as cold as ice! |
Nature in Winter
Animal Migration
Animal Migration
Some animals move from one place to another at certain times of the year. This movement is called migration.
Animals such as mammals, birds, fish and insects migrate for different reasons. Many migrate to find a mate or food. Some migrate to hibernate or rest for winter. Migration is part of the life cycle of these animals.
Many birds and bats fly to warmer regions for winter. Some earthworms move from the top of the soil to deeper underground. Some whales swim from cold polar regions to warmer waters.
Animals can travel great distances for their migration. Whales journey around 3000-5000 kms. A Western Gray Whale was recorded travelling 22,511 kms from Russia to Mexico and back again in 172 days.
Migrating animals use land features such as rivers and mountains to tell where they are. Scientists think that many animals use the position of the Sun and stars to find the way. Some animals, such as salmon, use their sense of smell.
Animals such as mammals, birds, fish and insects migrate for different reasons. Many migrate to find a mate or food. Some migrate to hibernate or rest for winter. Migration is part of the life cycle of these animals.
Many birds and bats fly to warmer regions for winter. Some earthworms move from the top of the soil to deeper underground. Some whales swim from cold polar regions to warmer waters.
Animals can travel great distances for their migration. Whales journey around 3000-5000 kms. A Western Gray Whale was recorded travelling 22,511 kms from Russia to Mexico and back again in 172 days.
Migrating animals use land features such as rivers and mountains to tell where they are. Scientists think that many animals use the position of the Sun and stars to find the way. Some animals, such as salmon, use their sense of smell.
Deciduous Trees
Trees sleep too
Deciduous Trees
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Deciduous trees lose all of their leaves for part of the year.
When it is very cold, the water in the tree can freeze. The leaves stop working and can even be damaged by the ice crystals. Trees prepare for this, and draw the nutrients out of the leaves when the days get shorter in autumn. This is when we can see them changing colour. When the tree is leafless, it can’t make food. But it doesn’t get hungry. Instead, it rests. |
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Australian Trees thrive in WinterAustralian plants have adapted to a dry hot environment, when the Winter rains come they use this time to grow deep roots, and then find valuable nutrients and moisture.
Most of Australia has a reasonably mild Winter, with no snow, so plants use this time to grow and thrive. |
Hibernation
Winter is for resting
Hibernation is a way for some animals to deal with the harsh winter. They curl up in a safe place and stay there until winter ends. They barely breathe, and their body temperature is near freezing.
How do animals hibernate?
Hibernators like dark, quiet winter homes. Some go underground or into caves.
Hibernators prepare for winter by eating lots of food to store fat. This keeps them alive during the months when they don't eat. Some hibernators collect and store food before hibernating.
Warmer temperatures tell an animal to come out of hibernation.
Is hibernation just sleeping?
Many animals sleep more in Winter, but they are not hibernating. Sleeping animals wake when they hear noises, while hibernating animals would not wake.
Bears are often mistaken as hibernators. However they just aren't as active in Winter. They move around, give birth and nurse during Winter.
How do animals hibernate?
Hibernators like dark, quiet winter homes. Some go underground or into caves.
Hibernators prepare for winter by eating lots of food to store fat. This keeps them alive during the months when they don't eat. Some hibernators collect and store food before hibernating.
Warmer temperatures tell an animal to come out of hibernation.
Is hibernation just sleeping?
Many animals sleep more in Winter, but they are not hibernating. Sleeping animals wake when they hear noises, while hibernating animals would not wake.
Bears are often mistaken as hibernators. However they just aren't as active in Winter. They move around, give birth and nurse during Winter.
winter coats
Winter coats
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My favourite part of winter is snuggling up with a warm blanket to read books.
Animals in the wild don't have blankets, but they have adapted to survive winter by growing thick winter coats to keep them warm. The colour of animals coats also helps them to camouflage. During winter some landscapes change colour drastically. In order to survive, animals coats change colours too. This helps animals to hide and to find food. When the sun starts to warm the land, the animals start to shed their winter coats. |
Prepare for hibernation
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Calling all Faerie schoolers, let's prepare for hibernation!!
Gather blankets and pillows and build yourself a hibernation cave. Think about animals that go into hibernation, what would they do to make their nest ideal for them? How can you make your nest ideal for you? |
Have you built a cubby, a den, a cave, a nook, a nest?
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Warm up with a Simmer Pot
Simmering Winter fruits and spices on the stove fills your home with delicious scents that lift your spirit. Take care to not burn the pot.
Try some of our favourite combinations below, or experiment with your own flavours.
Instructions: Fill a saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Add the ingredients from your favourite recipe, continue to boil for a few minutes, then turn the heat down to simmer.
Add water as needed, usually every 30 minutes or so.
Try some of our favourite combinations below, or experiment with your own flavours.
Instructions: Fill a saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Add the ingredients from your favourite recipe, continue to boil for a few minutes, then turn the heat down to simmer.
Add water as needed, usually every 30 minutes or so.
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Cinnamon Apple Simmer Pot
Lemon & Orange Simmer Pot
Cranberry Simmer Pot
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Pumpkin Spice Simmer Pot
Vanilla Dream Simmer Pot
Lavender Simmer Pot
Bay Leaf Simmer Pot
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Once upon a time...Many Christmas traditions we practise today come from older ceremonies based around Winter Solstice.
Mistletoe, holly, and ivy, were gathered by moonlight on Winter Solstice. Evergreen pine trees were said to lift your spirits during the cold of winter and so branches were brought into homes. The word 'carol' means a song or dance of joy and praise! Carols were sung during all seasons, but only singing at Christmas has survived. |
Top 10 favourite things to do outside in Winter
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Jump in puddles
Make mud pies Twirl with an umbrella Look for worms Have a picnic |
Make a water proof shelter
Roast marshmallows on a fire Find fungi Look for shapes in clouds Race leaves in a stream |
Winter Craft
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Winter is the perfect time for textile craft with knitting, crochet, sewing and felting.
Finger knitting is a house hold favourite of ours. We make long strands that can be turned into lantern handles, horsey reins and warm beanies. |
How to make a winter lantern
1) Use crayons to colour pictures on the paper
2) Use water colours to finish your art work
cut 10cm stripes along the long edge
Fire safetyBe sure never to leave candles unattended.
Talk about fire safety, appropriate places to put lanterns how to handle candles and be cautious when around them. |
Each year we make lanterns for Winter Solstice. I love seeing the changes in style and colours that we are drawn to. We use these to have light dim at night, choosing candlelight and salt lamps instead of bright lights. Here are examples of how to make two of our favourites.
Paper lantern
You will need
1) Use crayons to create patterns on your lantern paper. I wanted leaves and flowers like we usually do. However this year the boys chose talking food, monsters and raging fires. Use water colours for background, then leave to dry
3) paint with olive oil then hang to dry for a night. This gives the paper a beautiful quality that lets the light shine through. 4) Cut along the long edge around 10cm deep 5) fold the other long edge over around 1cm 6) curl lantern into a cylinder then staple 7) Fold the strips up and then glue a cardboard circle onto the cylinder. Leave to dry 8) punch two holes either side of the top 9) using wool twists or finger knitted strap, thread through holes. 10) use tea light candles 
Glass lanterns
You will need
2) use rafia, string, garden sprigs and beads to decorate 3) Using wire cutters wrap the top of the jar with wire, make sure it will be secured under the lip of the glass. Attach a wire handle. |
SoilNext month we look at Soil.
Get your hands in the garden, it's time to get dirty, we call it earthy!!! |
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