Whatever the Weather Science Experiments and Art Activities That Explore the Wonders of Weather

Let the weather take the lead and never be bored again! Paint in the rain, send kites soaring in the wind, build ice orbs, and become a snowflake scientist—let the wonders of nature inspire your next adventure.

Don't mourn a rainy day; instead, use it as a leaping-off point for outdoor adventures! The weather around us offers a perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of nature. The engaging science experiments and open-ended art activities in this book aim to give children ages four to eight a basic understanding of the science behind the weather that they experience each day, while also encouraging creativity, questioning, and a spirit of curiosity—perfect for budding naturalists. Full of accessible information about weather science and the way things work, this hands-on guide to exploring the natural world will inspire a sense of wonder and adventure—no matter what the day brings.

ANNIE RIECHMANN is an educator and unabashed nature lover. Her many years of experience in education have taken her from coast to coast, where she has taught in both rural and urban settings. These experiences have given her a unique perspective on ways that families can connect to nature, no matter where they live. Annie is the creator of Alphabet Glue, an e-magazine for families who love books, and an advocate for outdoor education in public schools. She is the mother of young naturalists herself and is not shy about her love of kitchen-table science! She lives in Massachusetts with her family.
DAWN SUZETTE SMITH is a self-taught naturalist and trained educator. For the past 15 years she has worked to promote children's connections with nature as well as outdoor pursuits for both physical and mental health. Her writing and photography have been featured in various print and online magazines and books and in exhibits with the National Park Service. Dawn currently homeschools two curious nature lovers and leads nature walks year-round to help families connect with nature through child-led nature study in the wild forests and along the rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, Canada.

Chapter 1. Baby, It's Cold Outside
Ice Sheet Sculptures / Winter Fairy Castles / DIY Ice Storm / Ice Orbs / Making Hail / Become a Snowflake Scientist / Frost Painting / Homemade Iceburgs

Chapter 2. Saving for a Rainy Day
Puddle Evaporation Art / Painting with Raindrops / Nature Paintbrushes / Catching Raindrops / Floating Nature Garland / Water-Tension String Art / Rainy Day Leaf Painting

Chapter 3. Let the Sun Shine In
Sunny Day Shadow Art / Evaporation Station / See What Transpires / Solar Prints / Sand Painting / Watercolor Cube Painting / Dots in the Dirt

Chapter 4. Where the Wind Blows
Leaf-Rubbing Pinwheels / Atmosphere Model / Air Pressure Eggs / Nature Kites / Origami Boats / Seed Head Clouds