Monday, July 13, 2009

Children's Altar


How to Set Up a Children's Altar?

Does your Child have their own altar?


What are some great ideas your child set up his or her own altar?

Here's some ideas too:

Here are some things that your child may want to include on his or her altar:

* Personal guardians: Kids need to feel safe, so if your child wants to add three different Batman figures or a giant Hello Kitty to the altar, let them. They can serve as protective talismans in the room.

* Natural items: Go for a nature walk and collect interesting leaves, rocks, shells, etc. Try to get out of doors regularly, so that your child can find new things as the Wheel of the Year turns.

* Magical tools: Children like to emulate what they see others doing. If your child sees you using a wand to cast a circle, or cards to do divination, she will probably follow suit. Allow your child to have her own tools - a wand, Tarot cards, a broom, etc. You can even substitute a toy or plastic knife for the Athene.

* Journal or Book of Shadows: Young children are perfectly capable of journaling, and an older child may wish to create his own Book of Shadows. Help your child select a notebook to use, and then offer ideas and prompts for them to write about. Some suggestions might be "My favorite time of year is ____" or "If I could change anything with magic it would be ______."

* Plants: Help your child pick fresh flowers, or grow a pot of herbs on her altar. This helps increase her connection to the natural world, and in the case of a potted plant, allows her to care for a living thing.

* Family photos: If your path is one in which you dedicate time and energy to honoring family and ancestors, have your child include this on her altar. It can include family photos, heirlooms or keepsakes, or even a framed print of your family tree.



A few safety tips to keep in mind when setting up your child's altar:

* This should be a no-brainer, but don't let very young children have candles or incense on their altar.

* If you have plants on the altar, make sure they're not toxic to people or pets.

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