Wild Child: Winter play is about building connections
Two children walk on an icy pathway holding hands.
One of the joys of spending time with little ones is building those relationships. I prize the moments when I’m invited to hear their thoughts, hopes, and concerns. For my family, winter time seems to sprinkle those moments throughout our play just a little more frequently.
Winter seems to draw us into connecting with other people. The white landscape, with fewer distractions, encourages those excited moments of discovery “did you see that little hole? I think a mouse lives in there!” or “there’s a bird in that tree!”. But also leaves time and space to talk and share together as we walk down a path.
More than any other season, in winter I find my children choose to share their thoughts, dreams, and memories with me. Something about the quiet, white landscape seems create a space for them that they are inspired to fill with connection.
An adult and child sit between to snow banks facing each other.
I see it in the woods with the Wild Children too. Winter is a time of building forts and dens, and hiding from view to share secrets and talk together.
Just like other seasons, I often find being outside lets children share on an equal level to their adults. We are genuinely excited to see the icicle they noticed that we have never previously seen, or make guesses together about whose tracks cut across our pathway. Those genuine moments of sharing are so valuable.
This week don’t miss out on the chance to strengthen your connections with each other.
take a hike
build a fort or den
and as you do listen and talk together.
Soon we will feel the rushed excitement of spring with its muddy laughter and new discovery, but for now I cherish those quiet winter talks and times of connection.
Written by Tandy Morton Wild Child facilitator