A new month means a new beginning. June brings warm sunshine, longer days, and the feeling that anything is possible. Children feel it in their bodies. They move freely, laugh louder, and marvel at the little things.

Where I come from, the Dominican Republic, where the beginning of summer felt like freedom. Where we played all day outdoors. We climbed trees to enjoy the seasonal fruits, invented group games like tag, played house outdoors, and only went inside when the sun began to set. We even enjoyed the rainy days, where we undoubtedly bathed in the rain and slid down the waterfalls. We visited the beaches more frequently to enjoy the lapping waves and the warm temperature that enveloped our bodies, where we spent hours burying ourselves in the sand and building sandcastles on the shore.

To welcome June with children, start with a walk. Let the children lead the walk. Observe the flowers, listen to the birds, and feel the warm breeze. Watch the ant’s work. Stop when they stop. Talk when they talk.

Incorporate water into your days. Fill a tub, a container, or even a leaf. Let them scoop, pour, and splash. Offer them real tasks with water, like washing toys or helping rinse vegetables. Let them get wet.

Let the children plant flowers or other types of plants; don’t worry about dirt or insects. Children grow strong and curious when they explore the world with their hands and feet. There’s no need for crafts or adult games. Just follow their lead.

This month, keep things simple. Open the door. Allow yourself to be swept away by joy. May June be full of wonder.

May it bring us patience, play, sunshine, and laughter.