Why Do the Seasons Change?
When children begin to notice that it's getting warmer, or that the leaves on trees in our beautiful Oregon start to change color, it's the perfect time to explain one of nature's most fascinating mysteries: the seasons. As parents, we sometimes wonder how to explain these changes in a way that our kids really understand and marvel at the world around them.
Earth's Tilt: The Key to Everything
The main reason we have seasons is quite simple yet beautiful: the Earth is tilted. Our planet doesn't spin straight around the Sun, but rather is tilted at approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt is what creates all the magic of the seasons.
Imagine the Sun like a lamp in the center of a room, and Earth orbits around it while tilted slightly. Depending on where Earth is in its orbit, different parts of the planet receive more or less direct sunlight. This is why we experience summer, fall, winter, and spring.
How Does It Work in Oregon?
Here in Oregon, during summer, our Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, which means longer days and warmer temperatures. It's the perfect time to visit local parks, enjoy family picnics, and of course, treat yourself to a delicious water pop or ice cream from La Michoacana to cool off!
When fall arrives, Earth continues its journey around the Sun, and our hemisphere begins to tilt away from it. Days become shorter, temperatures drop, and we see that spectacular display of colors that gets many families out walking and collecting leaves. It's a magical time to enjoy with the kids.
Winter brings even shorter days and cold temperatures, perfect for family activities like snuggling up at home to watch movies. And spring, finally, marks the return of warmth and light, when everything blooms again and kids can play outside once more.
A Lesson About Cycles and Change
Teaching our children about the seasons isn't just a science lesson. It's an opportunity to teach them about natural cycles, patience, and constant change. Each season brings its own joys and beauty. Winter teaches us to find warmth in time spent together. Spring shows us growth and renewal. Summer celebrates the abundance of light and energy. And fall reminds us that it's okay to let go of the old to make room for the new.
Seasonal Family Activities
A wonderful way to explore the seasons with your kids is to do activities specific to each one:
- Spring: Plant flowers or vegetables, look for new shoots in local parks
- Summer: Picnics, hikes in Oregon's forests, visits to the park with the kids
- Fall: Collect leaves, make crafts with the season's colors
- Winter: Create cozy moments at home, indoor games, enjoy family time
Enjoying the Present
Most importantly, remember that each season is a gift. In our fast-paced lives, the seasons invite us to slow down and notice the small changes happening around us. They remind us that time is precious, that nature has its own calendar, and that there is beauty in every moment of the year.
Whether you're explaining the seasons for the first time or diving deeper into science with older kids, remember that the best lesson is one that's lived. So get outside, observe the changes, enjoy the fresh air, and make memories with your family. And when you feel like you need something sweet to cool off after an outdoor adventure, you can always visit us at La Michoacana NW in Hillsboro. Our artisanal popsicles and ice creams are the perfect way to celebrate every season and every special moment with those you love. Come see us at one of our two locations or order through Uber Eats and DoorDash!
