Fairy Houses The Magic & Mysticism of - Bowdoin College · 2. Fairy houses are small dwellings...

The Magic & Mysticism of Fairy Houses

Fairy houses offer a way for children to express themselves through

imaginative play and capture the essence of childhood. They promote the growing need for children to be

immersed in nature.

The Importance of Fairy Houses

What are Fairy Houses?

1. 2.Fairy houses are small dwellings created by children (and their

families) for fairies, elves, and other magical beings to inhabit.

They can be found in a variety of different ecosystems : beaches, fields,

playground, backyards, etc. They should always be kept hidden!

Why Should Children Build Fairy Houses?

Imagination! Children get a chance to explore the unseen world - a world

they can create themselves.

Develops a sense of awareness - including the space in which they live.

Children will explore their senses deeply.

Children will start to develop concepts of

abstract thought. They can fashion the ordinary into the extraordinary.

NatureWhen positive memories and associations are

made with nature, it provides the next generation the compassion and awareness to

make sure it is available for their own children.Fairy houses are just one small way to

ignite their imagination and start a life-long appreciation and love of nature.

Spring Fairy House Materials

Fallen Branches & Twigs Leaves Pinecones & Acorns

Bark Pine Needles Mud

Summer Fairy House Materials

Fallen Leaves Flower Petals Seashells

Feathers Sand Seashells & Seaweed

Fall Fairy House Materials

Long Grasses Colorful Leaves Dried Flowers

Hay Driftwood Gourds

Winter Fairy House Materials

Snow Leftover Seeds Winter Berries

Rocks Root Systems Ice

Create A Story

Set the stage. Create an invitation that ignites your child’s imagination.

Example

Sneakily put out a trail of glitter, flower petals, seashells in your backyard. Allow your child to investigate and form hypothesis. Continue to add more “clues” daily or even leave a note from the fairy asking for help!

Constructing Fairy Houses

Grab a bucket or a basket and explore your neighborhood or

backyard

Head Outside

Only take what has fallen on the ground - no man-made

artifacts

Gather

Constructing Fairy Houses

Find an enclosed, secret spot and get started on building. Encourage detail and ask what other things fairy might need.

Build

Continue to go back and check on the fairy house. Note changes and maintain upkeep!

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