Hello, Rain!
What’s inside...
A picture book celebrating all the reasons to love the rain! Flowers bloom in the garden. Umbrellas bloom on the streets. There are puddles for jumping and, later, a cozy home for hot chocolate and books. The air is full of waiting. The sky is full of breeze. The trees gust and billow. All before it rains. Rumble, rumble. Distant thunder. Rain is coming, rain is coming.
Age
3-5
Length
44 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child
Mother
Discussion points
How do you think the rain feels in the story, and what makes you say that?
What are some ways the characters enjoy the rain? Can you think of ways we might enjoy the rain together?
What colors do you notice in the book during the rainy scenes? How do they make you feel?
If you were in the story, what would you wear on a rainy day and why?
What do you think the rain sounds like in the book? Can we make those sounds together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the rain by relating it to their personal experiences. Use expressive questions to delve deeper into the story’s themes, such as the sensory experiences of weather. Mimic or recreate scenes from the book during a rainy day to make the reading experience more immersive and memorable. Highlight the illustrations and ask your child to describe or interpret them, fostering creativity and observational skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: In 'Hello, Rain!', the protagonist learns to welcome the rain rather than dreading it, symbolizing a broader acceptance of change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to new situations, such as moving to a new school or meeting new friends, viewing these experiences positively.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The story encourages an exploration of the natural world, as the main character discovers the joys rain brings to the environment.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to explore and appreciate their surrounding environment, understanding the importance of all weather conditions in the natural cycle.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Through the character's imaginative play in the rain, the book celebrates the creativity that different weather can inspire.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to turn less favorable weather conditions into exciting play opportunities, boosting their creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: The character initially fears the rain but learns to find joy and playfulness in it, showcasing personal growth and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to confront and overcome their fears, helping them grow emotionally and become more confident.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Shared Experiences
Explanation: The book illustrates how shared experiences, like playing in the rain with others, can deepen friendships and create joyful memories.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to partake in communal activities, learning the value of sharing moments with friends and family.