Gather the kids, and craft a rain gauge. Rain gauges collect rainwater, enabling homeowners to determine the amount of rain received each time it rains. Measuring rainfall with a rain gauge teaches mathematics and diverts children's thoughts away from the dullness of a long day. When using a rain gauge to measure rain, check the gauge just after the rain stops; otherwise, the collected rainwater will evaporate. Empty the rain gauge after checking rainwater levels.
Take children outside for this rain craft. Centuries ago, rain chains originated in Japan. Used as a melodious and calming conduit to direct rainwater from the roof, rain chains brighten a rain-filled day. The Japanese used rain chains, also known as kusari-doi, to collect rainwater for later use. Rain chains come in many shapes and sizes and make for an easy lesson in water conservation. Mount rain chains according to manufacturer's instructions. In order to enjoy the chime of raindrops pattering on the rain chain, hang it near a porch, deck, patio or a covered garden room. You can make rain chains from copper. Copper oxidizes in the elements.
Making mini-books about rainy days or the water cycle will occupy children's hands and improve their reading and writing skills. Allowing a child to author the mini-book creates a sense of accomplishment. Determine the size of the mini-book before beginning. Add a copyright page to the front of the book. Create a book cover using card stock, and add a book blurb and an author's bio on the back cover.
If the children do not wish to participate in any rain crafts, try teaching them weather sayings, also called weather lore. Passed from generation to generation, spoken weather lore both entertains and forecasts the weather. Children enjoy learning weather lore. Kids can quickly memorize weather lore, often told in rhymes, and pass it on to others. Before the advent of modern-day weather forecasting, weather lore predicted the weather. Some weather sayings can actually determine upcoming weather.
Drawing weather maps on poster board helps children learn geography and how weather systems move across the U.S. and grants them the chance to play meteorologist. A meteorologist studies the earth's weather. Using, a sofa table and stool for the official weather desk works well. A hairbrush makes a great makeshift microphone. The homemade weather maps add authenticity to the child meteorologist's forecast.