Weather and Seasons: Kindergarten Study Guide
Weather is what the air outside is doing today: sunny, rainy, windy, cloudy or snowy.
Scientists observe and record weather every day. Weather is described by temperature (hot or cold), sky (sunny, cloudy), wind and precipitation (rain, snow or hail). A thermometer measures temperature, and a simple wind sock shows which way the wind blows.
Weather is different from climate. Weather changes daily; the patterns we see across a year form the seasons: spring, summer, fall (autumn) and winter.
The four seasons
In many parts of the United States, each season has a pattern. Spring is warmer, with rain and growing plants. Summer is hot with long days. Fall is cooler with colorful leaves. Winter is cold, with short days and sometimes snow. Some places, like Hawaii and southern Florida, have less change between seasons.
| Season | Temperature | Typical signs |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild | Rain, buds, baby animals |
| Summer | Hot | Long days, swimming, green leaves |
| Fall | Cooler | Falling leaves, harvest |
| Winter | Cold | Short days, snow in many places |
Keep a weather chart
A weather chart helps children notice patterns.
Is it sunny, cloudy, rainy or snowy?
Is it warm or cold? Read the thermometer.
Draw a symbol on a calendar.
At month's end, which weather happened most?
Weather safety
Weather can be dangerous. In a thunderstorm go inside and stay away from windows. In very hot weather drink water and rest in the shade. In very cold weather wear a hat, gloves and a coat. Know that adults and weather forecasts help us prepare for storms, floods or heavy snow.
Worked examples and common mistakes
Example: You see children in coats and mittens. What season might it be? Probably winter. Example: The sky is gray and the ground is wet. It rained recently. Common mistakes: thinking the Sun moves around the Earth to make seasons (actually the Earth's tilt as it travels around the Sun causes seasons, which older children learn), and thinking clouds are made of smoke. Clouds are tiny water drops.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. Your drawing should match the sky and temperature today, for example a sun, a cloud or rain. 2. Spring, summer, fall, winter. 3. A raincoat or an umbrella, and boots to keep your feet dry.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Weather is the daily condition of the air outside.
- Seasons are patterns of weather across a year.
- Observing and recording helps us see patterns.
- We dress and act safely for the weather.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- What is the weather today? Draw it.
- Name the four seasons in order.
- What should you wear in the rain?
Print a science observation log →