Spring Equinox: Fun Nature Activities to Celebrate the Changing Seasons

What is the Spring Equinox and why is it special? As winter fades and the days grow longer, the Spring Equinox marks an important turning point in the natural calendar. In the UK, it usually falls between March 19th and…

What is the Spring Equinox and why is it special?

As winter fades and the days grow longer, the Spring Equinox marks an important turning point in the natural calendar. In the UK, it usually falls between March 19th and 21st, signalling the official start of spring. At this point, day and night are nearly equal in length, bringing a balance between light and dark.

For centuries, cultures around the world have celebrated the equinox as a time of renewal, growth and change. In nature, we see animals emerging from hibernation, flowers beginning to bloom and many birds busy nesting. It’s a great time to encourage children to explore the outdoors, observe seasonal changes and take part in hands-on nature activities.

Nature-Based Ways to Celebrate the Spring Equinox

Fun ways to celebrate the Spring Equinox with children, whether you’re a home educator, teacher or parent:

1. Plant seeds to welcome the new season

Spring is all about growth and renewal, making it the perfect time to plant seeds. Whether you have a garden, a balcony or a windowsill, children can experience the joy of watching something grow.

‘Because plants need water, light, and warmth to grow, the extra daylight each week is the reason why spring is the season when the garden bursts into life.

The showery weather gives plants the water they need to thrive. The longer days mean they have more daylight and warmth from the sun which raises the temperature of both the air and the soil.’ BBC News

Activity Ideas:

Create a wildflower mini-meadow, by scattering native wildflower seeds, to create a pollinator-friendly patch for bees and butterflies.
Start a herb garden, by planting basil, chives, mint or parsley in pots, for easy, home-grown herbs.
Grow tomatoes, peas or lettuce from seed and track their growth in a plant journal.

2. Create a nature mandala

A nature mandala is a beautiful way to celebrate the balance and harmony of the equinox. Children can use natural materials to create circular patterns on the ground, reflecting the seasonal changes around them.

How to make a nature mandala:

Go for a walk and collect fallen leaves, petals, twigs, pebbles, seeds and pinecones
Find a flat area outdoors (or use a tray if inside)
Arrange the materials in repeating patterns in a circle
Observe the shapes, colours and textures of the natural objects
Take a photo of the finished mandala before returning the materials to nature.

‘Connecting your children with nature’s rhythms offers a fundamental way to nurture their curiosity while building a lasting appreciation for the natural world. From observing seasonal changes to tracking the moon’s phases and understanding weather patterns, these natural cycles provide endless opportunities for learning and wonder.

Teaching kids about nature’s rhythms isn’t just educational – it helps them develop mindfulness skills and a deeper understanding of their place in the world around them. When children learn to notice and appreciate these patterns, they’re more likely to become environmentally conscious adults who understand the importance of preserving our natural resources.’ Paths of Learning

3. Outdoor Storytelling: Spring Folktales & Myths

The Spring Equinox has been celebrated in myths and folklore for centuries. Cultures around the world have stories about new life, rebirth and the changing seasons.

Spring Equinox Storytelling Ideas:

Ancient Traditions: The Celts and Druids celebrated the equinox at sites like Stonehenge, where the sun perfectly aligns with the stones
The Goddess Ostara: In pagan traditions, Ostara is a goddess of spring and fertility, often associated with hares and eggs (which later influenced Easter traditions!)
Greek Mythology: The story of Persephone and Demeter explains the arrival of spring—when Persephone returns from the underworld, flowers bloom and warmth returns.

Activity Idea: Encourage children to write or illustrate their own spring story, inspired by their experiences in nature!