The weather is an amazing thing….. it changes daily and may even change several times in one day! While we may talk about “what the weather will be today” using charts or images, we could take this much further.
Being aware of our weather, temperatures, seasons can be great opportunities to explore science and prenumeracy but also supports awareness of planting and harvesting, care for our flora and fauna, awareness of sun safety / UV and of course being aware of our environment and surroundings.
So, here are some simple, yet effective ways to explore weather, the environment and hence nurture a more sustainable and environmentally aware generation!
A great short clip exploring the water cycle to children:
Discover how to make rainbows with CDs, light and water! … Another use for those old CDs 🙂
Rainbows:Â https://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/reflecting_rainbows.html
Sensory weather bottles… a great tool for younger children to explore and discuss weather
Weather stones… an easy resource to make, using natural resources and promoting discussions, even story telling
Use the above clip to learn about the water cycle and children can then use this “cloud identifier” to decide what clouds they can see
Ribbons can show wind movements and intensity
Room displays (using recycled materials) can allow children to discuss, explore and re-create their understandings
Using recycled plastic bottle create a “Rain Gauge”… a great way to discuss rain fall as well as engage in meaningful and “real” numeracy experiences
Connect with Indigenous culture and explore the 6 seasons, their descriptions and impacts on the flora and fauna
Exploring the weather with children can be so much more than morning calendar / group time… use the weather to have conversations about the environment, make connections with the land, explore science and maths as well as nurture greater consciousness and awareness of our environment.Â
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