The Yuletide season is traditionally held on the longest night of the year. It is the day when the Earth begins to enter into the new season, and the days become longer, the nights become shorter, and we honour the return of the sun.
There are a number of ways that pagans can honour this Sabbat, and we have seen many traditions this week. But how would one celebrate this Yule with children? I, personally, have two children who are a bit older now, but we have spent the past few years implementing ways to celebrate the Yuletide season as a family without falling victim to the consumerism that becomes the month of December.
1. Do something nice for someone else.
Each year, the family will chose a charity to which we can donate our time or money. Being animal-lovers, we often lean toward an organization that assists rescue animals. One year, we fostered – and spoiled – a rescue dog over the holiday season. Despite her inability to understand that the holidays were a time for family, it was nice to be able to share a couple weeks with a pup and have her integrate into our family. We have also gone in and paid outstanding vet bills.
2. Learn other cultures’ traditions
On top of loving animals, my family are avid readers. We came across an Icelandic tradition called Jólabókaflóð, literally a book flood. It was borne during a time when books were inexpensive and families would gift books on Christmas eve, and then spend the evening reading. This is a wonderful way to connect without having to feel forced to interact. I’ve always enjoyed being with my kin. Doing our own thing, but doing it together is one of the best feelings in the world. If this tradition is not something that speaks to you, make your own tradition! Hot chocolate and Christmas movies like Gremlins, or Die Hard are timeless classics.
3. Feasts
Nothing brings a family together like food. Honour the gods, and the goddesses and give thanks for all that has been provided and spend this holiday season having a feast dedicated to family time and togetherness. A feast does not need to take all day to prepare, it can be as simple as preparing your family’s favourite dish with intent, and sitting down and holding space together.
4. Make memories.
In the past few years, I‘ve focused more on making memories with my family, than on providing them with gifts. Oftentimes we may leave for a mini-vacation, or staycation, and build memories that will last a lifetime. We have traveled North, West, East and South for our runaway adventures, learning about the culture and environment in which we find ourselves. Most recently, we found ourselves reconnecting with the earth as we traveled to Waterton Lakes National Park and spent the weekend breathing in the mountain air, and hiking in the snow.
There are many ways that one might be able to honour and celebrate the Yuletide season with children. Doing so does not need to be a large and elaborate ritual unless you want it to be. As long as your traditions are done with intent, this holiday season can be quite fruitful, educational, and fulfilling.
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