Weather Appreciation

Weather Appreciation can be completed in every season, in any way that happens safely and organically. Is the sun shining? Great! Is it snowing or raining? No problem! Is it windy? Perfect! Get outside and see how you can interact with your world today!

Items needed:

Clothing appropriate for the weather. It might be difficult to practice weather appreciation if your little one is over-dressed or under-dressed for the climate!

Steps:

First, bring your toddler to a window and discuss what is going on outside. Is it raining? Is it snowing? Is it windy? Is it sunny? Do they think it is warm or cold?

Help your child pick out the appropriate attire to wear. Describe why each article of clothing is necessary for your adventure. For example: You are wearing your ball cap because it is sunny outside, or you will need your rainboots because it is wet out there. If you have a younger toddler, you will be having a lengthy dialogue with yourself (we have all been there!). It is still extremely important to narrate everything you are doing and the decision-making process. Our little people understand so much and they are always absorbing new information.

Once your little adventurer is ready, head outside. Reiterate your indoor discussion and then seek out ways to appreciate the weather.

Discuss how the weather is responsible for the particular activity that you are enjoying. For example: The rain made this wonderful puddle for you to jump in, we are able to go sledding because of all of this snow, the sun helped these pretty flowers grow or the wind blew all of these leaves to the ground for us to play with.

Weather appreciation is one of the many ways that we can teach our children to express gratitude. Whatever your child gravitates toward once you start exploring the weather should be your main focus. Maintain a positive attitude and find a way to express gratitude for whatever particular event the weather is responsible for that day!