The Kids' Book of Weather Forecasting (Kids Can!)
Williamson Kids Can! Series
What’s inside...
With experiments, observations, and activities, children aged seven to thirteen will learn to predict the weather by understanding the science behind it. From foggy mornings to sunny afternoons to our changing seasons, weather forecasting is a year-round, practical science that children will have fun learning about. Kids will construct and use their own weather equipment under the guidance of meteorologist Mark Breen, analyzing complex information and sharpening their forecasting skills. They will be able to advise on weather conditions like advising parents to bring an umbrella because it's going to rain.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you find most interesting about how weather is predicted?
How do you think knowing the weather helps people plan their day?
Can you explain what some of the weather instruments do?
Why do you think it’s important for us to learn about different types of weather?
If you could be a weather forecaster for a day, what would you do differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the weather topics discussed in the book to their daily experiences. Ask them about the weather today and how it might change.
Use the book as a springboard to do simple weather-related experiments at home, like measuring rainfall or documenting weather changes.
Prompt your child to keep a weather journal for a week using knowledge from the book to make it a fun and educational experience.
Discuss the role of a meteorologist and explore together whether this could be an exciting career option; emphasize the importance of science and observation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Scientific Curiosity
Explanation: The book educates children on how to use tools and observe natural phenomena to predict the weather, fostering a keen interest in science.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this curiosity by engaging in hands-on science projects at school or conducting small experiments at home to explore natural events and their causes.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Through examining weather patterns and learning forecasting techniques, children are encouraged to think critically and analyze information to make educated guesses.
Real-World Application: This skill is invaluable in problem-solving tasks in schoolwork and other everyday situations, where they must assess information before making decisions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of accurately predicting the weather and the impact it can have on people’s lives, teaching children the significance of responsibility in sharing information.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand the consequences of their predictions and statements, promoting accountability in their daily interactions and activities.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: By connecting weather patterns with environmental conditions, the book instills an awareness of the environment and the importance of preserving it.
Real-World Application: This awareness can lead children to participate in eco-friendly activities, like recycling or conserving water, and advocate for environmental health in their communities.