5 Cozy Ideas from the Autumn Bucket List to Spark Joy in Your Classroom (or Home)

Fall is the perfect season to slow down, notice the beauty around us, and build meaningful routines with kids. My kids love to create bucket list's, especially as the seasons change. That’s why I wanted to create the Autumn Bucket List, a free printable full of cozy, family-friendly activities to bring calm and connection into your classroom or home.

Here are 5 favorites from the list, expanded with ideas you can try this week:

1. Try a New Apple Recipe

Cooking and tasting together builds community, SEL skills, and literacy connections.

• In the classroom: Compare apple varieties, vote on favorites, or use descriptive words to write a class poem.

• At home: Bake apple crisp, apple nachos, or even make smoothies with your kids. Free apple recipe in the bucket list!

2. Create a Calm Corner with Mini Lights

Kids need safe, cozy spaces where they can regulate emotions.

• Add mini lights, soft pillows, a fall blanket, and a gratitude jar. Free gratitude printable for your jar in the bucket list!

• Use it for quick breaks during busy days, even 2 minutes in a calm corner can reset the tone of the whole classroom.

3. Collect Leaves and Make a Fort

Nothing says fall like falling leaves. The other day I was walking barefoot on my property and it was a little wet from dew and the leaves had freshly fallen. Walking on soft leaves was so peaceful and oddly satisfying.

• Go on a leaf walk and use leaves for math (sorting, graphing) or art (rubbings, collages).

• At home, build a backyard fort or simply make “leaf soup” in a big bowl for sensory fun. Fun motive candle leaf craft in our book Little Chewz Celebrates Fall

4. Write Three Things You’re Grateful For

Gratitude boosts emotional wellness and builds resilience.

• In the classroom: Try a daily “Gratitude Circle” where each student shares one thing.

• At home: Keep a fall gratitude journal as a family project. Free gratitude printable to fill out in the bucket list!

5. Get Cozy with a Good Book

Nothing beats curling up with a seasonal story. Grab our newest book: The Little Chewz Fall Cookbook for some food and SEL fun!

• In class: Hold a “Flashlight Friday” where kids bring blankets and read by flashlight.

• At home: Choose a family read-aloud that celebrates the season.

Want the full list? Download your free Autumn Bucket List here and make this fall unforgettable.

And don’t forget to join my Little Chewz Newsletter for seasonal freebies, discounts, and teacher tips that make your job easier. Just scroll to the bottom of any Little Chewz page to join the family.