As Fall Approaches: Reflection, Renewal, and a Sweet Treat for the Season

By Caroline Kelley, M.Ed., Peaceful Child Education

As fall approaches, nature begins her quiet transformation- inviting us to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. For humane educators, this seasonal shift is more than a change in temperature or the vibrant turning of leaves. It’s a timely reminder of the cyclical nature of compassion, growth, and our shared responsibility to cultivate a more just, kind, and sustainable world.

A Season of Reflection and Reconnection

In classrooms, shelters, sanctuaries, and communities, the back-to-school season is in full swing. For many of us, this is a time to re-engage learners in critical conversations about kindness—to people, animals, and the planet. Fall provides the perfect backdrop for storytelling, for thoughtful discussion, and for modeling the interconnectedness that humane education champions.

This season, let’s ask ourselves:

• How are we modeling empathy in our daily lives and lessons?
• What new ways can we help learners make meaningful connections between their choices and the world around them?
• Are we making space for joy, rest, and community in our work as humane educators?

In a world that often feels rushed and reactive, autumn’s pace encourages us to be intentional. Whether it’s choosing kinder curricula, hosting a compassion-centered book club, or just taking a mindful walk outdoors—every small act matters.

Classroom Connections: Kindness in Action

Fall also offers countless humane education tie-ins—from harvest festivals that emphasize plant-based food systems, to exploring ethical fashion as colder weather invites wardrobe changes. Now is a wonderful time to explore seasonal topics like:

• Animal welfare in farming and how plant-based choices support more compassionate food systems.
• The impact of migration and habitat loss as birds and other animals adapt to seasonal changes.
• Environmental stewardship through discussions about leaf litter, composting, and preparing gardens for winter.

Through these explorations, we foster not only knowledge, but the compassion and critical thinking that help shape a more humane future.

Activity: “Cookies for a Kinder World”

Age range: 4–8

Duration: 30–45 minutes

Setting: Classroom or home kitchen

Objective

To help children understand how the foods we eat can show kindness to animals, people, and the planet — while engaging in a joyful, hands-on experience.

Activity Steps

1. Begin with a Story or Discussion

Sit together and ask:

•  “Where do the ingredients in our cookies come from?”
•  “Who might help grow or harvest them?”
• “How can we make food choices that are kind to animals and the Earth?”

Talk about how plant-based recipes mean fewer farm animals kept in factories and less harm to the environment. Introduce the idea that kindness can start in the kitchen.

2. Bake Together

Follow the vegan cookie recipe (see below) — point out ingredients like vegan chocolate, or plant-based milk as “kind choices.”

While mixing, talk about:

• “How do plants help us stay healthy?”
• “What animals might share this environment with us?”
• “How can we protect their homes?”

(Optional: If baking isn’t possible, children can “mix” pretend ingredients in bowls with spoons for a sensory play version.)

3. Reflection: “Kindness You Can Taste”

As the cookies bake (or after tasting), have children draw or dictate their answer to: “How does this cookie show kindness?” or “Who or what does our cookie help?” Collect their drawings to make a “Kind Kitchen” poster.

4. Extension (optional)

Afterward, compost leftover scraps or crumbs together. Talk about how compost helps the Earth “recycle” food into soil — another way of caring for the planet.

Key Takeaway

“When we make kind cookies, we help animals, people, and the planet — one sweet bite at a time.”

A Cozy Treat: Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Of course, no fall reflection would be complete without something warm and sweet to share. Whether you’re baking for a classroom celebration, an outreach event, or a quiet moment of self-care, these vegan chocolate chip cookies are a favorite—easy to make, cruelty-free, and delicious!

Soft & Chewy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil (solid, not melted) or vegan butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (like almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the coconut oil and brown sugar until smooth.

3. Add the non-dairy milk and vanilla, mixing until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined.

6. Fold in the chocolate chips.

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look soft—that’s perfect!

9. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tip: These freeze well! Make a double batch and save some for future cozy moments.

Sharing Warmth, Sharing Values

As we ease into fall, may we all find small ways to nourish not only our bodies, but also our hearts and communities. Whether through compassionate teaching, mindful eating, or simple acts of kindness—this season offers space to deepen our practice as humane educators.

Wishing you a meaningful, mission-driven autumn. Stay warm, stay kind, and don’t forget to share the cookies.