review · Feedback · 5–10 min · 2-50 people · low energy

Weather Report Check-in

A metaphorical check-in where participants describe their current emotional or mental state as a weather system (e.g., 'sunny with a chance of clouds'). It provides a safe, low-pressure way to share feelings.

When to use Weather Report Check-in

To gauge the 'emotional temperature' of the group and identify if anyone needs extra support or if the energy is low.

What it solves

Hidden stress or emotional baggage that prevents a group from being productive.

How to run Weather Report Check-in, step by step

  1. Ask participants to reflect on their current 'internal weather' (1 minute).
  2. Participants share their weather report via the chat or by speaking (5-8 minutes).
  3. The facilitator acknowledges the patterns (e.g., 'We have a lot of fog in the room today, let's try to find some clarity') (1 minute).

Materials needed

  • None (or a shared whiteboard for drawing)

Facilitator tips

  • As a facilitator, share your weather first to set a tone of honesty.
  • Don't try to 'fix' the bad weather; simply acknowledge it and move forward.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants giving 'standard' answers like 'I'm fine.' Encourage them to stick to the metaphor.

Variations

  • Use a visual 'Weather Map' on Miro where people place their names on different weather icons.

Running it online or hybrid

Can be done via chat, voice, or by drawing on a shared digital whiteboard.

What it produces

A 'weather map' of the group's current state, providing context for the facilitator.

Origin

Adapted from SessionLab Library — source

Build a session around Weather Report Check-in

METODIC places Weather Report Check-in inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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