We may joke about it at times, but we all talk about the weather. It’s something we have in common with our neighbors. And when we chat with far-flung family and friends, we want to know how they are, and that includes hearing about the weather conditions where they live. Helping your child observe and describe the weather invites him or her to join the conversation. And asking “Do you think it will rain today?” also sends an important message: “What you think matters to me!” This issue, “Cloudy Weather,” page 33, encourages children to observe clouds. As they examine the photographs on the page and the clouds outside your door, they will be learning to think like scientists. If your child wants to know more, I’m sure the children’s section of your local public library has a number of excellent books about clouds and weather. Have fun observing and talking together about the weather!