Fall is Here!



Cypress trees turning yellow are one of
the first signs of fall in Florida.

In Florida, it can be a little more difficult to notice when the seasons begin to change.  Most people would agree we have a wet and a dry season, but if you look closely, you can find evidence that fall has arrived, even here.  Obviously, the sun sits a little lower in the sky and daylight hours are decreasing.  There is a little less humidity in the air and the 95 degree weather is gone until next spring.  But take an even closer look.  Many Florida plants are changing.  They’re just more subtle than the fireworks of color just a little to the north.  American Beautyberries and Dahoon Holly berries are ripening to their bright beautiful purple and red colors respectively.  Cypress trees are turning yellow.  And many other plants are covered with seeds.  Plants aren’t the only living things preparing for the Florida Winter.  Soon birds will be flying in from up north and mammals will be preparing nests and dens for a short Florida winter.

Just the other day, my daughter and I watched our neighborhood squirrels gathering acorns and frantically burying them all over the yard.  Just like squirrels in colder climates, Florida squirrels are preparing for winter.  The only differences may be that Florida squirrels have a longer season to gather all of their food, and winter shouldn’t last as long.  But it is still unpredictable and squirrels tend to be over prepared, which is a good lesson for your child.  By the way, if oak trees are producing a lot of acorns, that usually indicates a harsh winter is coming. 

If your child is noticing busy animals collecting food, leaves falling from trees, and cool breezes, it is a great time to tell the old ant and grasshopper fable, where the ant works all summer and fall collecting food and preparing for the winter while the grasshopper plays.  Then when winter comes, it’s too late for the grasshopper to gather food.  The grasshopper sees the ant comfortable with plenty of food during the cold winter months and learns that it is best to be prepared.  Ask your child how you can prepare for the winter.  Have your child help make suggestions such as shop for a winter coat, bake using fall fruits and nuts, rake leaves, or plant fall flowers or a fall vegetable garden and then work together on those fall projects. 

It’s always a good lesson, teaching children to be prepared, and young children naturally want to help.  So get your child involved with all of your preparation plans whether they are for the winter, a vacation trip, or a picnic in the park to watch your local wildlife.  Likewise, fall is a great season for observations.  See how many seasonal changes your child notices.  And most importantly, get out and enjoy the cooler weather!