open · Icebreaker, Team Building, Check-in · 5–10 min · 2-40 people · low energy
Weather Check-in
The Weather Check-in is a quick and insightful way to gauge the emotional climate of a group. By using weather metaphors, participants can share their current state of mind in a non-direct, relatable way, fostering empathy and awareness.
When to use Weather Check-in
Use this method at the beginning of a meeting or workshop to quickly assess the mood of the participants and identify any potential roadblocks. It's also effective as a closing activity to reflect on how the group's 'climate' has shifted.
What it solves
Difficulty expressing emotions directly, reluctance to share personal feelings, lack of awareness of team's emotional state.
How to run Weather Check-in, step by step
- Explain the activity. Invite participants to describe their current state of mind using weather metaphors (e.g., 'I feel like a cloudy day'). (2 minutes)
- Go around the group, allowing each person to share their 'weather' without interruption. (3-5 minutes)
- (Optional) Briefly discuss any emerging patterns or themes. (2-3 minutes)
Materials needed
- None
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to be creative with their metaphors.
- Be mindful of time and gently guide the conversation if needed.
- Model vulnerability by sharing your own 'weather' first.
Common pitfalls
- Participants struggling to find a weather metaphor. Offer examples to spark ideas.
- Participants oversharing personal details. Gently redirect the conversation back to the metaphor.
Variations
- Use different types of weather (e.g., temperature, wind) to add nuance.
- Ask participants to predict the weather for the session.
Running it online or hybrid
Participants can share their 'weather' in the chat or verbally via video conference. Use a virtual whiteboard for a visual representation of the team's overall climate.
What it produces
A shared understanding of the team's current emotional state.
Origin
Created by Erica Marx — source
Build a session around Weather Check-in
METODIC places Weather Check-in inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.