Celebrating the Spring Equinox with Your Children

For many Pagans the Spring Equinox is a time of renewal and rebirth. The sun moves into the sign of Aries, the first sign of the Zodiac. This Sabbat is a time of joy and fun with friends and family alike. Welcoming in the spring can be a wonderful way for Pagan parents to share their beliefs with their children and create family traditions that everyone can enjoy.

In many traditions this marks the beginning of the new year as well. The Romans began their year on March 15th, in England and Ireland between the 12th century and 1752 March 25th was the first day of the new year, the Persian New Year falls on the spring Equinox, and the Babylonian New Year began with the first New Moon after the Spring Equinox. The newness of the year and the newness of life go hand in hand for many Pagan families.

Many parents take this time to go outside and enjoy the warmer spring weather. Children are often excited to go out after the long winter stuck inside, and are naturally curious about the signs of spring all around them. Showing children the plants and animals that are making their way out to greet the spring is a great way to teach children about the Equinox and what it brings.

While you are outside with your children why not start a garden? Seeds and new plants are perfect examples of the new life that comes with the spring. Spend time with your children getting your hands dirty working in your own garden. Children can easily see the cycle of life, death, and new life by watching the plants grow, be harvested, and grow anew.