We’re soaring into 2025 with a fresh perspective and some exciting new ideas to share!
Change can be tough—for both kids and adults—but it also brings opportunities for growth and connection. This year, we’re trying something new to help you navigate those moments of change while strengthening relationships with your children.
Each month, we’ll use the wisdom of animals to explore fun, creative ways to teach important life lessons. It’s a chance to connect, learn, and grow together while keeping things positive and engaging for the whole family.
As we settle into January, it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh starts and explore what nature can teach us about new beginnings. Let’s dive into this first edition—featuring this month’s animal, the eagle—and start the year off with inspiration!
Did You Know? What Animals Teach Us Across Cultures
Throughout history, various cultures have connected human characteristics with animals, using them as symbols to convey deeper meanings:
- Western Zodiac: Features 12 signs, each linked to specific animals and traits, such as Leo (the Lion) symbolizing leadership.
- Chinese Zodiac: Operates on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal that influences personality and destiny. (Fun Hint: The Chinese New Year later this month brings in the wisdom of the Snake!)
- Native American Totems: Many Native American cultures believe in animal totems, spiritual guides that offer protection and wisdom.
- Celtic Animal Zodiac: Assigns animal symbols to different periods of the year, each embodying distinct traits.
These traditions show how deeply connected we are to nature and how animals inspire us to grow and learn.
I’ve seen this connection firsthand in my years of teaching. Storytelling and animal symbolism are some of the best ways to help kids understand personal growth.
Animals give kids relatable, visual examples of strength, resilience, and other qualities we want to nurture. When we use animals as teaching tools, kids stay engaged—and the lessons really stick!
REK's January Animal: The Eagle
January is all about the Eagle, a symbol of clear vision, strength, and fresh starts.
Eagles have amazing eyesight—about 8 times better than humans—which helps them spot things far away. They can fly high in the sky, showing us how to reach big goals and face new challenges with courage.
Tip: Stay inspired all month with our special eagle-themed phone wallpaper!
Simply download the image, set it as your lock screen or wallpaper (go to your phone’s settings or photo gallery to adjust), and let the quote "Don't just fly. Soar." encourage you to keep a clear vision and focus on your goals.
Use it as a reminder to guide your child in adopting the eagle’s perspective—rising above challenges, looking at the bigger picture, and finding new ways to solve problems with confidence and insight.
Tool: An Eagle Feather (or a Drawing)
I like to use an eagle feather—or even a simple drawing of one—as a tool to teach kids about focusing on the good, positive things in their lives. I call these “light” things, instead of the “heavy” or negative ones.
Placing the feather in their room or workspace can remind them to rise above challenges, see the bigger picture, and look for solutions, just like an eagle soaring high in the sky. It’s a simple but powerful way to help them shift their perspective.
Activity: Sky-Gazing Goals. Spend some time outside with your child, looking up at the stars and the vast sky. Encourage them to imagine what it would be like to see the world as an eagle does—rising above everything to get a clear, big-picture view.
If you want to make it extra special, try this guided meditation for kids by kids on star-gazing to help them relax and focus. Afterward, talk about their goals for the year and how they can "soar" to achieve them, just like the eagle.
Is January your birthday month?
If January is your or your child’s birthday month, we’d love to hear from you! Share a story or personal insight that connects to the Eagle’s message of vision, strength, or new beginnings. Maybe you’ve started a new journey, shown resilience during tough times, or had a moment of clarity that set you on a fresh path.
Email your story to us with the subject line “Animal Tales: January Submission” by January 31st for a chance to be featured in the February newsletter. We can’t wait to read your inspiring stories and celebrate the unique qualities that each month’s animal brings to our community!
Next week, Sylvia will share ways to create simple, meaningful changes that stick—for both you and your kids. But before we wrap up, here’s something I love to share with parents:
Educate, Elevate, Empower.
Educate your child—teach them new ways to think, like how the eagle rises above challenges. Next, elevate them—point out what they’re good at and cheer them on. Then, empower them—give them the tools and confidence to face challenges with strength and focus.
When we do this, we’re not just teaching lessons—we’re helping kids grow into their best selves. That’s what I love most about working with kids, and I hope it inspires you too.
Keep soaring into the new year!
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