31 Days. 31 Flowers. Teaching kids about Geraniums…

Literature, legends and art bloom with FLOWERS, from lovely little nursery rhymes to sophisticated epic poetry and great myths and masterpieces.  Knowing the names of flowers, the references to flowers, the symbols of flowers, the language of flowers gives kids a blooming head start in understanding literature and enhancing literacy.

Each day in May, a FLOWER will be presented here at 31 Days. 31 Flowers – 31 Ways to engage your kids in literature, literacy and life in just a few moments a day. Enjoy!

The GERANIUM…  derived from the Greek word geranós, meaning crane, the Geranium’s fruit capsule is thought to resemble a crane’s bill.  It’s been noted that the Geranium’s fruit is comprised of 5 grains and beaked.

The Geranium has lots of interesting nicknames, including Pinke Needle and Stork’s Bill along with the more common Crane’s Bill.

For centuries, the *Geranium, with its reputed ability to balance hormones,  has been regarded a charm of fertility and growth.  The Geranium is feminine, ruled by Venus, and brings luck by colors; Red Geraniums strengthen health, Pink Geraniums are often used in love spells and White Geraniums increase fertility.

(But please note: Particular superstition/folklore warning is given to *pregnant women to avoid the Geranium due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.)

Geranium flowers, carried as amulets, are said to attract abundance and prosperity.

The Geranium is also widely used in aromatherapy as a skin restorative and is especially known for its rejuvenating properties. 

Wow.  The power of the the Geranium.  Let your kids in on the secrets of this lovely flower.  Tell of its crane’s bill and its reputed charms (well, maybe the Red Geranium charm!).

Take the delightful Geranium and turn it into a delightful learning experience.  Share this masterpiece and quote by French Impressionist painter Claude Monet: I perhaps owe having become a painter to flowers...