How to Make a Simple Weathervane for Kids

By Isaiah David

  • Overview

    A weathervane is a simple device for measuring the direction the wind is blowing in. Pretty much anything that can fit on a pivot and turn in the wind can be used as weather vane. Try challenging your kids to come up with other methods to construct their own weathervanes.

    • Step 1

      Straighten a paperclip. Then, make a small loop in the middle of it.

    • Step 2

      Cut a vertical slit in one end of a straw. It should be 1 or 2 inches in length.

    • Step 3

      Cut a small triangle out of a note card. Stick it into the slit so that it is positioned like an arrow flight. Put some tape over the connection to strengthen it.

    • Step 4

      Use a pin to poke a hole through the straw somewhere near the center. slide It onto the paper clip. It should rest on the loop in the middle of the paperclip.

    • Step 5

      Tape the paperclip onto a dowel so that it is facing straight up. Push the dowel into the ground so it will stand straight up.
    • Skill: Easy
    • Ingredients:
    • Straw
    • Paper clip
    • Dowel
    • Tape
    • Pin
    • Note card
    • Scissors
    • Tip: Instead of cutting out a triangle, use another shape for the fin to make your weathervane more decorative.

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