November air smells the best to me. It is so clean and fresh and not so cold that you can't take big, deep breaths of it. This week I have two suggestions for you.
1) Roly-Poly Races: Head outside with your kids and search for roly-polies in the soil. My daughter loves these shy little creatures. They are very tolerant and don't bite or sting. You can refer to chapter 34 of I Love Dirt, by Jennifer Ward, for more details. While you're out there see what other insects and critters you can find. Try to curb your own fears and approach the experience like your child might, with wonder and love.
2) Emphasize thankfulness. Create a thankful jar or box with your child. You may write statements of thanks on small cards to place in the jar and collect objects from nature that your child finds and cherishes. While your at it, make a thankful jar or box for yourself. You might need it when the real cold and dark sets in after the holidays.
