Sky Clues Slides Sensory Weather Explorers
Day 1 • Lesson Focus
Sky Clues
Let’s use our calm eyes and gentle ears to notice what the sky is doing today.
We Look Softly
We Listen Gently
We Feel the Air
Look outside together Vocabulary: Sunny • Cloudy • Rainy • Windy • Snowy
Weather Word 1 of 5
Warm & Bright
Look Up
Sunny
The sun shines in a clear or pale blue sky. It brings golden daylight and gentle warmth.
What It Looks Like
Bright blue sky, yellow sun, clear shadows
What It Feels Like
Warm skin, cozy rays, squinched eyes
Sensory Tip
Wear sunglasses or a wide brim if it feels too bright
Practice Cue: Place hands near your cheeks to imagine gentle, cozy sunshine warmth.
Weather Word 2 of 5
Soft & Calming
Look Up
Cloudy
Clouds float across the sky like giant soft pillows. They block bright glare and make the light peaceful.
What It Looks Like
Gray or white shapes covering the sun
What It Feels Like
Mild, resting light, comfortable for sensitive eyes
Sensory Tip
Watch the cloud shapes drift quietly across the sky
Practice Cue: Take a deep, slow breath like a floating, calm cloud.
Weather Word 3 of 5
Pitter-Patter Drops
Look & Listen
Rainy
Water droplets fall from dark gray clouds. Rain taps rhythmically on rooftops, windows, and leaves.
What It Sounds Like
Soft pitter-patter or tapping white noise
What It Feels Like
Cool water drops, damp air, fresh clean scent
Sensory Tip
Stay dry with smooth waterproof fabric or boots
Practice Cue: Tap two fingers lightly on your table to make quiet raindrops: tap... tap... tap...
Weather Word 4 of 5
Moving Air
Feel The Air
Windy
Air moves quickly across the ground. It pushes leaves, sways trees, and rushes past our ears.
What It Looks Like
Tree branches waving, grass dancing, flying hats
What It Feels Like
Cool breeze on cheeks, hair blowing, sudden gust
Sensory Tip
A snug hood or ear muffs can soften loud howling sounds
Practice Cue: Gently blow air onto the back of your hand: whoooosh.
Weather Word 5 of 5
Quiet & Cold
Silent Wonder
Snowy
Frozen ice crystals flutter down like soft white feathers. Snow blankets the ground and makes the world peaceful and quiet.
What It Looks Like
Sparkling white hills, falling flakes, frosty air
What It Sounds Like
Very quiet silence, then soft crunch under boots
Sensory Tip
Soft warm mittens and thick socks keep toes happy
Practice Cue: Hug your arms across your chest to remember cozy warm layers.
Sky Clues Matching Cards Day 1 • Vocabulary & Sensory Cards
Sky Clues Matching Cards
Name:
Date:
Directions: Carefully cut out the 6 weather clue cards below (or point to them). Match each card with its sky sign, air feel, and vocabulary word.
Weather Card 1
Sunny
Golden light shining through bright blue sky
Sky Clue: Bright light, clear shadows
Air Feel: Gentle warmth on skin
Weather Card 2
Cloudy
Soft gray and white cloud pillows overhead
Sky Clue: Sun is hidden, soft diffused light
Air Feel: Calm, comfortable, mild shade
Weather Card 3
Rainy
Water drops falling with a gentle tapping sound
Sky Clue: Dark gray clouds, falling drops
Air Feel: Wet, cool, fresh damp air
Weather Card 4
Windy
Air rushing across trees, grass, and jackets
Sky Clue: Tree branches waving back and forth
Air Feel: Cool rush of moving breeze
Weather Card 5
Snowy
Quiet frozen crystals floating to earth
Sky Clue: White ground, floating snowflakes
Air Feel: Cold, crisp, quiet world
Weather Bonus
Sensory Check
Notice how my body feels in today's weather
My Skin: Warm, cool, or cozy?
My Ears: Loud breeze or peaceful quiet?
Tip for Sensory Support: Laminate cards for smooth tactile handling, or add hook-and-loop velcro dots to back.
Day 1 • Sorting Mat & Practice
Weather Clue Sorting Mat
Page 2 of 2
Part 1: Place or glue your cut cards into the matching sensory box.
Wet or Frozen Sky (Rain or Snow)
Drop cards where water falls from clouds:
Dry Sky (Sun, Clouds, or Wind)
Drop cards with no rain falling:
Part 2: Read each clue and circle the matching weather word.
1 The sky is blue and your skin feels warm and toasty. What is the weather?
Sunny
Rainy
Snowy
2 You hear a soft pitter-patter sound and water drops tap on the window. What is the weather?
Sky Clues Teacher Guide Day 1 • Teacher Facilitation Guide
Sky Clues Teacher Guide
Pacing: 30–45 mins
Focus: Weather Vocabulary & Senses
Instructional Intent & Sensory Rationale
Weather concepts can feel abstract or overwhelming (loud thunder, sudden cold, blinding glare). This lesson anchors each weather condition in predictable, concrete sensory cues: what eyes see softly, what ears hear calmly, and how skin feels air changes.
1
Warm-Up (10 min)
Window check & soft breathing. Open Sky Clues Slides. Dim overhead lights if needed to reduce sensory strain.
Script: "Let's check the sky with calm eyes. Is the light bright, soft, or gray today?"
2
Explore (20 min)
Introduce the 5 vocabulary words. Use tactile clue cards. Model gentle finger tapping for rain and hand-waving for wind.
Script: "Wind is moving air. Blow softly on your palm—can you feel your breath breeze?"
3
Sort & Reflect (10 min)
Independent or paired sorting on page 2 mat. Complete sensory self-check. Provide choice of scissors or pre-cut cards.
Script: "Which weather makes your body feel most relaxed and cozy?"
Tactile Sensory Station Ideas (Low Prep)
☀️ Warm Sand / Cotton Warm sun tray using sun-warmed cloth or cotton fluff to represent gentle fluffy clouds.
🌧️ Raindrops & Mist A tiny spray bottle misting velvet paper or blue beads in a quiet sensory bottle.
💨 Paper Fan Breeze Handheld paper fans to create gentle personal breezes on students' wrists or cheeks.
Differentiated Supports for Diverse Learners
Auditory Sensitivity: Avoid loud synthesized weather sounds. Stick to quiet finger taps for rain and soft humming for wind. Allow noise-muffling headphones during group discussions.
Visual Sensitivity: Dim ambient classroom lights during the slide presentation. Use matte, non-glossy paper when printing student matching cards to reduce light reflection.
Motor / Speech Support: Pre-cut cards with foam tape or velcro backing. Accept pointing, eye gaze, or symbol tapping instead of verbal vocabulary output.
Sensory Weather Explorers • Lesson 1 Teacher Guide Tomorrow: Weather Wear & Tactile Dressing Choices
Weather Wear Slides Sensory Weather Explorers
Day 2 • Clothing & Comfort
Weather Wear
Our clothes are like protective shields! They keep our bodies warm, dry, cool, and comfortable in every kind of sky.
Stay Cool
Light, airy fabrics
Stay Dry
Waterproof coats & boots
Stay Cozy
Soft warm layers
Matching clothing to weather conditions Tactile Comfort Matters!
Sunny Day Clothes
Warm & Bright Skies
What do we wear when it is sunny?
When the sun is strong, we wear breathable clothes and protect our sensitive skin and eyes.
💡 Comfort Tip: Choose smooth cotton shirts that let air flow around your skin.
Sunglasses
Softens bright light so our eyes stay relaxed
Sun Hat / Cap
Creates portable shade over forehead and neck
Light T-Shirt & Shorts
Keeps bodies from overheating during playtime
Question: Would you wear a heavy wool sweater on a hot sunny day? No way!
Rainy Day Clothes
Wet Drops Falling
What keeps us dry in the rain?
Wet clothes can feel soggy and cold. Waterproof materials bounce water away so our clothes stay dry!
💡 Comfort Tip: Dry socks inside rubber rain boots keep toes warm and happy.
Raincoat with Hood
Slick fabric lets raindrops slide right off
Waterproof Rain Boots
Splash-friendly boots keep socks completely dry
Umbrella Canopy
Creates a little dry roof over our heads
Feel Cue: The outside of a raincoat feels slippery and smooth; the inside feels dry!
Windy Day Clothes
Fast Moving Air
How do we dress for strong wind?
Wind can blow chills through our shirts and whip hair around our eyes. We pick clothes that zip close and stay secure!
💡 Comfort Tip: Snug hoods prevent wind from roaring loudly in your ears.
Windbreaker Jacket
Tightly woven fabric blocks gusts from chilling you
Beanie or Ear Warmers
Keeps ears cozy and cushions howling air sounds
Snug Closed Shoes
Tied sneakers won't blow off when you run
Safety Check: Keep loose scarves tucked safely inside your jacket zipper!
Snowy Day Clothes
Freezing & Frosty
Bundle up in warm, cozy layers!
Snow is frozen water. We wear multiple soft layers so cold air can never reach our skin.
Weather Wear Activity Day 2 • Wardrobe Cutout Sheet
Weather Wear Cutouts
Name:
Date:
Directions: Cut along the dotted lines to collect your 8 weather clothing tokens. On Page 2, paste each token onto the matching weather scene.
Rain & Puddles
Waterproof Raincoat
Slick hood & dry shell
Sensory feel: Smooth & waterproof
Rain & Puddles
Rubber Rain Boots
Keeps socks 100% dry
Sensory feel: Sturdy & splash-safe
Sun & Heat
UV Sunglasses
Softens bright sunshine
Sensory feel: Calming on sensitive eyes
Sun & Heat
Shady Sun Hat
Wide brim blocks glare
Sensory feel: Lightweight shade
Breezy & Wind
Zip-Up Windbreaker
Stops cool moving gusts
Sensory feel: Snug & secure
Breezy & Wind
Ear-Warm Beanie
Cushions loud howling air
Sensory feel: Soft hugging fabric
Snow & Frost
Puffy Winter Coat
Heavy insulation for freezing days
Sensory feel: Deep pressure warmth
Snow & Frost
Fleece Mittens
Keeps chilly fingers toasted
Sensory feel: Soft fleece inside
Tactile Tip: For fine motor adaptations, attach velcro or repositionable tape to tokens.
Day 2 • Dressing Board
Weather Wear Scene Mats
Page 2 of 2
Part 1: Paste 2 tokens into Scene A (Rainy Day) and 2 tokens into Scene B (Sunny Day).
Scene A: Rainy Day Wet & Cool
Goal: Keep our body dry and warm from falling water drops.
Target Wear: Raincoat & Waterproof Boots
Scene B: Sunny Day Bright & Warm
Goal: Keep eyes relaxed and protect skin from heat glare.
Target Wear: Sunglasses & Shady Sun Hat
Part 2: Circle the best clothing choice for each weather situation.
1 It is snowing outside and very cold. What should you put on your hands?
Warm Mittens
Sunglasses
Short Sleeve Shirt
2 The wind is gusting hard and whistling in your ears. What helps most?
Swimsuit
Beanie or Snug Hood
Open Sandals
3 Rain is pouring down and puddles are deep. What keeps your feet dry?
Rubber Rain Boots
Weather Wear Comfort Checklist Day 2 • Student Sensory Tool
Weather Wear Comfort Checklist
Name:
Date:
My Clothing Comfort Plan: Check off the weather outside today, then pick clothes that feel good on your body and keep you protected.
Step 1: What is the weather doing outside right now?
Sunny
Cloudy
Rainy
Windy
Snowy
Step 2: Weather Clothing & Gear Checklist
Sunny Gear Light cotton shirt, shorts, sun hat, UV sunglasses
Stay Cool & Shaded
Rainy Gear Waterproof hooded jacket, rubber boots, umbrella
Stay 100% Dry
Windy Gear Windbreaker jacket, snug beanie/earmuffs, secure shoes
Block Drafts & Whistles
Snowy Gear Puffy coat, snow pants, insulated boots, warm mittens
Traps Body Warmth
Step 3: My Tactile Comfort Preferences (Check what helps me)
Tagless / Soft Seams No scratchy labels touching neck or waist
Sunglasses for Light Reduces bright glare outside
Loose & Breathable Clothes don't squeeze or pinch skin
Cozy Hood / Earmuffs Keeps windy sounds muffled and ears warm
Ready to Head Outside? Final Comfort Check: Circle your answer
☀️ Too Hot
✅ Just Right & Cozy
❄️ Too Cold
Sensory Weather Explorers • Lesson 2 Clothing Checklist Self-Advocacy: "I know what my body needs to feel comfortable."
Storm Ready Slides Sensory Weather Explorers
Day 3 • Safety & Calm Routines
Storm Ready
Big weather can make big sounds and fast movements. When we know what to expect, we stay calm, safe, and ready!
Safe Spaces
Cozy indoor shelter
Calm Ears
Soft mufflers & deep breaths
Smart Plans
Step-by-step actions
Weather Safety Habits Predictable • Reassuring • Empowering
Storm Safety 1
Thunder & Rain
When Thunder Rumbles
Thunder is just the sound of warm air snapping after a flash of lightning. It cannot touch you inside a sturdy building!
Calming Motto: "When thunder roars, we go indoors!"
1. Step Inside
Move off playgrounds and into class or home
2. Protect Sensitive Ears
Put on noise-cancelling headphones or play calm music
3. Cozy Calming Corner
Hold a soft plushie, book, or weighted lap pad
Remember: You are completely safe inside walls and under a roof.
Storm Safety 2
Strong Gusts
When Wind Howls Loudly
Fast wind can blow away hats, push against your chest, and snap dry tree branches.
Wind Safety Rule: Stay clear of tall trees and stay close to a trusted adult!
1. Look Above
Don't stand under big trees with swaying limbs
2. Hold Loose Items Tight
Zip papers and hats into backpacks so they don't fly
3. Pull Up Your Hood
Cushions loud whistling air from tingling your ears
Sensory Practice: Take 3 slow belly breaths when the wind sounds fast outside.
Storm Safety 3
High Heat & Glare
When the Sun Is Blazing
Hot sunshine can make our bodies sweaty, tired, and overheated. We take extra care of our skin and hydration!
Heat Safety Rule: Sip water often and rest in shady cool spots.
1. Drink Cool Water
Replenishes energy and cools down your body engine
2. Seek the Shade
Rest under trees, awnings, or play indoors at peak noon
3. Sunscreen & Sunglasses
Protects delicate skin from sunburn and eyes from glare
Body Check: If your face feels flushed and hot, take a cool water break immediately.
Storm Safety 4
Snow & Slippery Ice
When the Ground Is Icy
Sidewalks and steps can freeze into slippery glass. We slow our bodies down and walk with steady care.
Daily Weather Station Tracker Day 3 • Meteorologist Report
Daily Weather Station Tracker
Meteorologist:
Date:
Station Step 1: What does the sky look like?
Circle one
Sunny Bright sky
Cloudy Soft clouds
Rainy Tapping water
Windy Moving air
Snowy White frost
Station Step 2: How does the outdoor air feel on skin?
Circle one
🔥 Very Warm / Hot Need shade & water
🌱 Mild & Pleasant Just right outside
💨 Breezy & Brisk Need light jacket
🧊 Freezing Cold Need heavy coat & boots
Draw Today's Sky:
Sketch what the clouds or sun look like right now:
My Weather Outfit Today:
Write 2 items you are wearing to stay safe and comfortable:
My Calming Weather Tool Today:
[ ] Noise Earmuffs [ ] Shady Hat [ ] 3 Deep Breaths [ ] Cozy Layers
Daily Morning Routine: Complete after checking the classroom or home window.
Day 3 • Safety Scenarios & Decisions
Weather Safety Choice Board
Page 2 of 2
Directions: Read each weather situation and circle the safe, calming choice.
1 You are playing outside at recess and hear a loud rumble of thunder in the sky. What is the safest choice?
Walk calmly inside the school with your teacher
Climb to the top of the highest playground slide
Hide behind a tree and wait alone
2 The afternoon sun is blazing hot, and you feel sweaty and thirsty. What should you do?
Run faster without stopping to rest
Take a drink of water and rest in the shade
Put on a heavy winter coat and mittens
3 The sidewalk has patches of shiny ice in winter. How do you walk safely?
Sprint with hands buried deep in pockets
Take slow, flat penguin steps with hands free
Close your eyes and jump over each patch
4 Strong wind is howling against the classroom window and making loud sounds. What helps you feel calm?
Wear earmuffs, take slow breaths, hold a plushie
Open all classroom windows to let the air in
Throw papers into the wind to watch them fly
My Weather Explorer Safety Pledge
"I will look at the sky, dress for comfort, and make safe choices every day!"
Signed:
Sensory Weather Explorers • Lesson 3 Safety Board Safety Champion Badge Earned! ⭐
Sensory Weather Family Guide Family & Caregiver Connection
Sensory Weather Family Guide
Home Routine Support
Bridging School to Home
Empowering Weather Explorers at Home
Over this 3-day sequence, your child learned five weather words (sunny, cloudy, rainy, windy, snowy), how clothes protect our bodies, and how to stay safe and calm in storms. Here are gentle, practical ways to reinforce these routines at home.
1. The 2-Minute Window Ritual
Make checking the weather an enjoyable morning sensory habit before picking outfits:
Look at the Sky: "Are clouds fluffy or dark gray? Is the sunshine strong or gentle?"
Feel the Glass: "Touch the window pane—does it feel cold, warm, or damp?"
Listen Closely: "Can we hear cars splashing puddles or the wind blowing branches?"
2. Solving Sensory Clothing Battles
Weather wear (rain boots, stiff jackets, tight hats) can trigger strong tactile discomfort:
✓
Stiff Raincoats: Try a soft fleece zip-up under a thin, flexible rain poncho instead of a crinkly heavy slicker.
✓
Sock & Boot Resistance: Look for flat-knit seamless socks and sized-up boots with removable soft insoles.
✓
Bright Sun Overload: Keep sunglasses and comfortable baseball caps in a basket right by the front door.
3. Storm Comfort Kit (When Thunder Rumbles)
Thunderstorms and high winds can induce sensory startle reflexes and fear:
Cozy Indoor Den: Build a blanket fort or designate a soft corner with pillows and plushies away from exposed windows.
Auditory Buffers: Use noise-cancelling headphones, white noise machines, or play an audiobook to soften loud thunder claps.
Reassuring Science: Explain that lightning is light energy and thunder is air clapping, safe outside while you are cozy inside.
Calming Co-Regulation: Practice "hot cocoa breaths": breathe in deeply like smelling chocolate, breathe out slowly to cool it down.
Sensory Weather Explorers • Family Resource Guide Questions? Reach out to your student's teaching team!
