May Day is a joyful celebration that takes place on the first Monday of May. In England, it’s a time steeped in history, tradition, and the spirit of spring. For centuries, communities have come together to welcome the new season with dancing, singing, flower crowns, and of course, plenty of cake!
In villages and towns across the country, May Day has long been known for the colourful tradition of maypole dancing. Ribbons, bells, and happy faces spinning around the maypole have marked this occasion for generations. It’s a wonderful symbol of community spirit and renewal – something that resonates deeply in Early Years settings too.
But did you know that May Day also holds historical significance beyond flower garlands and music?
Back in 1889, May 1st was officially chosen as International Workers’ Day, a day to recognise the efforts and rights of workers all over the world. This came after a movement in 1856 when workers across many countries came together to campaign for the eight-hour working day. It’s a powerful reminder of how communities can unite for positive change – a value that still holds strong in Early Years education.
Across the globe, countries mark this day with joyful parades, songs, dancing, decorations, and delicious food. Here are just a few places where May Day is also celebrated:
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Sweden
- Finland
- Czechia
- Spain
- Romania
- Canada
- America
- Hawaii
- And even parts of the UK, like Ireland and Scotland!
Whether it’s through storytelling, small celebrations, or simple craft activities, May Day offers a lovely opportunity to talk with little ones about seasons, community, and how people celebrate around the world.
May Day Activities for Toddlers
May Day is a lovely chance to bring a little colour, music, and joy into your setting – and a perfect excuse to celebrate the arrival of spring with the children. Here are three toddler-friendly May Day activities to try in your setting:
🌼 1. Ribbon Wand Dancing
A toddler-friendly twist on traditional maypole dancing that encourages movement, rhythm, and coordination.
You’ll need:
- Wooden spoons, short sticks, or large lolly sticks
- Colourful ribbons or crepe paper streamers
- Child-safe glue or tape
Steps:
- Cut ribbons to around 30–40cm in length.
- Help the children glue or tape the ribbons to one end of their stick or spoon.
- Once dry, put on some gentle music and let the children wave their ribbon wands while they dance, twirl, and explore movement freely.
Tip: Head outdoors if you can – windy weather makes this even more fun!
🌸 2. Nature Crowns
Bring the outdoors in and celebrate spring with simple flower or leaf crowns.
You’ll need:
- Cardboard strips (pre-cut to fit around each child’s head)
- Double-sided tape or glue
- A collection of natural items like dandelions, daisies, petals, leaves, or grass (gathered safely with adult help)
Steps:
- Wrap a cardboard strip around each child’s head and tape it to size.
- Apply a strip of double-sided tape around the crown.
- Support the children to gently press flowers and leaves onto the sticky surface.
This is a lovely sensory activity and a chance to talk about different textures, colours, and the signs of spring.
🎶 3. May Day Music Circle
Simple songs and instruments can create a joyful May Day music session.
You’ll need:
- Homemade or toy musical instruments (shakers, bells, tambourines)
- A few seasonal songs (e.g. “Ring a Ring o’ Roses,” or a springtime favourite your children already enjoy)
- A soft rug or mat for everyone to sit on
Steps:
- Gather the children in a circle and introduce the instruments.
- Sing together and let the children join in with sounds and actions.
- Encourage free exploration of the instruments and let the music session flow naturally.
Adding some flower decorations or a garland in the circle makes it feel extra special.
A Moment to Celebrate Together
Whether it’s dancing with ribbons, making crowns from nature, or simply enjoying a little music together, May Day offers a lovely moment to pause and celebrate with your little ones. These simple activities support sensory play, fine motor skills, and social interaction, all while helping children feel connected to the world around them.
Do you have any May Day traditions in your setting? We’d love to hear how you celebrate the season with your toddlers!
