Does anybody give out May Day flowers anymore?
I can remember doing it as a kid, at my mom’s urging. It was simple and fun: We picked a few blossoms, maybe tied a ribbon around them, then put them on neighbors’ porches, rang the bell and took off before being discovered. We didn’t bother with making a “basket.” But I had friends who made a “basket” for the flowers by rolling a square piece of paper into a cone. Maybe with a paper handle stapled on or a ribbon – maybe not. Maybe they even got fancy and colored the paper before wrapping it up. No big deal, but with little kids it probably was a project that filled a couple of hours or maybe the whole morning.
Apparently this is a rite of spring that has mostly run its course.
NPR a few years back took a deep dive into the “forgotten tradition” of May Basket Day.
I say: Let’s bring it back!
What a sweet, simple way to teach kids about kindness and brighten someone’s day.
May Day flowers: ideas
If you want May Day basket ideas there are tons of cute ideas on Pinterest.
I like to keep it simple. Pick (or purchase) a few flowers, put them in small vases, little baskets or paper cones and go spread good cheer! You could choose to do it anonymously or with a little note.
Originally published April 2019
In the spirit of spring:
Oh la la! Ciscoe Morris tips for gardening with kids
Gardening with kids: Match the task to their age and interest
Head to here for more at-home Spring fun activities: The-Playlist Garden-themed, At-home Activities for Kids.
