Parents and young viewers often ask when does autumn actually start according to BBC Newsround, especially as the schedules and weather seem to shift each year. This guide breaks down the key dates, explanations, and what to expect based on how the BBC and meteorologists define the season.
Clear timelines, simple definitions, and reliable sources help children and families plan for changing leaves, earlier nights, and new school routines. The following sections outline the main factors that determine the start of autumn and how BBC Newsround presents this information.
| Season | Meteorological Start | Astronomical Start | Typical BBC Newsround Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | 1 September | Between 21 and 24 September | Reports on seasonal changes and school term dates |
| Winter | 1 December | Around 21 or 22 December | Weather forecasts and daylight explanations |
| Spring | 1 March | Around 20 or 21 March | Coverage of growing seasons and animals |
| Summer | 1 June | Between 20 and 24 June | School holiday features and daylight stories |
Meteorological Autumn Defined by Date
BBC Newsround usually explains that meteorological autumn follows fixed calendar dates that align with school terms and climate records. This method uses neat three-month blocks that make it straightforward to compare temperatures and rainfall.
Under this system, autumn begins on 1 September and runs through to 30 November. Broadcasters favor these dates because they simplify storytelling about colder nights, falling leaves, and seasonal activities in a consistent way.
Astronomical Autumn Relies on Equinoxes
What Is the Autumn Equinox
The astronomical start of autumn depends on the equinox, when daylight and nighttime are almost equal around the globe. In 2025, this moment typically occurs on 22 or 23 September, depending on time zones and leap-year details.
Why the Date Can Shift
The astronomical date can move between 21 and 24 September over different years because Earth’s orbit and tilt do not line up perfectly every 365 days. BBC Newsround often highlights this variability when explaining why autumn feels like it starts on different days.
How BBC Newsround Covers Autumn
Educational Features for Kids
Segments on BBC Newsround frequently include colorful graphics, young reporters, and simple countdowns to the first day of autumn. These stories connect the season change to topics such as harvest, migration, and early sunsets.
School and Family Planning
By outlining both meteorological and astronomical dates, BBC Newsround helps parents organize after-school activities, checklists for winter uniforms, and discussions about seasonal road safety as evenings get darker.
Comparing Meteorological and Astronomical Methods
| Method | Start Date | Basis | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meteorological | 1 September | Calendar months and climate data | Weather records and school terms |
| Astronomical | 21–24 September | Earth’s tilt and equinox timings | Traditional seasons and daylight hours |
Practical Tips for Following Autumn on BBC Newsround
- Check the forecast segment to see how temperatures change after the equinox.
- Note the daylight hours mentioned in reports to plan outdoor activities.
- Observe how stories on animals and harvest align with the seasonal start.
- Use both meteorological and astronomical dates to understand why coverage varies.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does BBC Newsround sometimes mention late September for autumn?
This refers to the astronomical definition, which uses the equinox when daylight and darkness are nearly equal. The exact date can shift between 21 and 24 September each year.
What should I plan for when autumn starts on 1 September?
Use this date for scheduling school routines, checking weather forecasts, and preparing outdoor gear, as meteorological autumn gives a stable framework for planning.
Does the start of autumn affect TV schedules or news coverage on BBC Newsround?
Yes, shifts in daylight and season-related stories influence programming, so BBC Newsround may adjust segments on weather, nature, and safety as autumn progresses.
Can the autumn equinox be on different dates in different countries?
Yes, time zones and local calendar adjustments can make the equinox fall on slightly different days, which BBC Newsround explains alongside global weather patterns.