Start your Magickal Family Practice
Since reconnecting with my practice, I knew I didn't want to be in the broom closet with my family. I was excited to share my practice with my children openly but also nervous. What would they say? Would they think I was a crazy person?
They didn't say much then but have asked many questions since our initial conversations. It has been an ongoing process rooted in open communication. I am grateful for the opportunity to introduce my children to witchcraft at such young ages and look forward to being part of their journey.
I have listed a few ways to help you begin:
Explore Nature
Spending time outdoors to explore the wonders of nature fosters a deep connection with the natural world. Encourage them to observe the plants, animals, and elements around them. Talk to them about correspondences, the changing seasons, the elements, and the moon's cycles. Explain the interconnectedness of all living beings and how it relates to witchcraft's core beliefs.
Sacred Spaces
Create a space in your home as a designated area for rituals or activities. For grounding, visualization, or meditation, you may use a set of special pillows and blankets on the floor. You may have a specific table or space that everyone can reach and help maintain an altar.
Keep It Simple
Remember that children have short attention spans and may not be ready for complex rituals or long meditations (I'm an adult and not a huge fan either). You can start with a simple intention setting, short visualizations, affirmations, and a card pull. As your children grow in their practice, these short rituals can become longer and more individualized.
Make it fun
Incorporate storytelling and craft activities into your practice. Encourage your children to get creative and express themselves. This can be sewing herb sachets, crafts using natural materials, handmade objects for the family altar, writing, drawing, storytelling, or even dancing. Share age-appropriate stories and myths related to witchcraft and paganism. These can include tales of magical creatures, legends of deities, or stories about the cycles of nature. Use storytelling to educate, entertain, and spark curiosity in your children.
Emphasize Safety
Safety is essential to witchcraft, especially when sharing our practice with children. Tailor your teachings to your child's age; for example, you may need to use fake candles or provide extra assistance in any work that requires a heat source. Emphasize that spells and rituals should always be performed under adult supervision and guidance.
Final Thoughts
Beginning with age-appropriate and basic practices can help children feel connected to the natural world and empowered to trust their intuition. Approach the practice with an open mind, adapt to your children's needs and interests, and make it a joyful and interactive experience. Encourage them to explore different aspects of witchcraft and support their growth and unique spiritual paths as you begin this magical journey together.