Freakin' Friday Freebie: Sunlight & S’mores
Why the Summer Solstice Deserves a Spot on Your Family Calendar
There are plenty of things we let slip in the summer: bedtime routines, matching socks, the concept of time. But there’s one thing I never want to skip over, and that’s the Summer Solstice—a sun-soaked celebration of light, connection, and a subtle reminder from the universe that we are part of something much bigger than Target runs and snack negotiations.
You may be thinking, “Hilary, are you really asking me to add something else to our already melty summer schedule?” Yes. Yes, I am. But hear me out—this isn’t about glitter crafts or orchestrating a Scandinavian maypole in your backyard (unless you're into that, in which case, invite me). It’s about anchoring your family with a meaningful ritual that reminds your children: the natural world has rhythms, and we are allowed—even invited—to honor them.
So, What Is the Summer Solstice?
The Summer Solstice, usually around June 20-21 in the Northern Hemisphere, is the longest day of the year. It marks the official start of summer, when the sun appears to stand still (sol = sun, stice = still) before beginning its slow slide back toward shorter days. Spiritually and symbolically, it's a time of illumination, growth, and gratitude. For our ancestors, this day was sacred—a celebration of abundance, survival, and the sheer wonder of the Earth’s cycles.
For kids? It’s a great excuse to stay up late and chase fireflies. Win-win.
Why It Matters for Our Children
In a world where the seasons can be ignored with the push of a thermostat or the glow of a screen, teaching our kids to notice nature’s rhythms is a gift. The solstice is a perfect way to:
Celebrate presence over productivity.
Cultivate gratitude for the natural world.
Mark time not by deadlines but by ritual.
Help kids feel a sense of belonging—to family, Earth, and something greater.
It’s not just a fun day. It’s a subtle nudge toward groundedness, awe, and a little bit of ancient magic.
How to Celebrate Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Sunscreen)
Let’s keep this real: we’re not going full Druid. You don’t need robes or crystals (unless you want to). These are simple, fun, and meaningful ways to mark the day with your family:
1. Sunrise or Sunset Ritual
Wake up early or stay up late—either way, let the sky do the talking. Watch the sun rise or set and say one thing you're grateful for. Even littles can do this. Bonus points if it’s something like “rainbow popsicles” or “my mom’s squishy hugs.”
2. Nature Walk & Wildflower Pick
Take a barefoot stroll. Collect leaves, stones, flowers. Let kids make their own “solstice crown” with twigs and dandelions. Yes, it will look like something you find in the dryer. That's the point.
3. Make a Sun-Themed Snack
Think orange slices, lemon cookies, or “sun pizzas” (use yellow peppers, cheese, and corn). Is this just an excuse to eat carbs outside? Absolutely.
4. Tell a Story Around a Fire
Build a backyard firepit or light a candle if that’s more your speed. Tell stories—family tales, myths about the sun, or how Grandma used to celebrate summer. The goal is connection, not Pinterest perfection.
5. Write Your Intentions
On pieces of paper, write down what you want to invite into the season—more laughter, less yelling about shoes, bravery, peace, joy. Bury them in the garden or place them in a jar. Let your kids know they can bloom too.
It’s Not About Doing It “Right”
There’s no wrong way to celebrate the light. You don’t need to buy anything. You don’t need to explain astronomy in full detail (unless you want to show off). You just need to pause, look up, and say: this day matters.
Because if we can teach our children to notice the rising sun, maybe they’ll also notice the small kindnesses, the stillness in their own hearts, the way joy can sneak up on you in golden hour.
So here’s to sunlight, s’mores, and starting traditions that glow.
✨ Call to Action:
If you try any of these solstice ideas, I’d love to see or hear about it—comment below or tag me on socials. Let’s share how we light up our families.
And if you liked this, share it with someone who could use a little sun magic this June.