THIS WEEK'S FUN LEARNING AT HOME

For this week's activity, let's make a Rain Chain to learn about rainwater recycling/water conservation!

Rainy weather teaches how rain water can be re-cycled to work for us and preserve our environment! Materials: Zip ties Optional Additions: Beads Cookie cutters Small pots Chain A rain chain can be used as alternative to a gutter downspout, but we can hang this from a tree branch or anywhere else outside where it can collect water!

Step 1 – Form a loop with a zip tie!   Connect the end of the zip tie to the top and tighten slightly until you have the size of the loop you want.

Step 2 - Add on Put another zip tie through your last loop and connect it to form another loop!

Step 3 – Optional Creative Ideas To add things to your chain, you can thread beads onto your zip ties, or use the zip ties to connect cookie cutters, tiny terra cotta pots, actual chains, or almost anything else you can imagine!   Let your creativity run wild!

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Step 4 Repeat and connect enough zip ties and other items so that it is long enough to reach the ground from where it will hang.

Step 5 - Find a tree branch or other spot outside to hang your rain chain from!

Step 6 – Secure it to the ground! To prevent your chain from moving in the wind, secure it to the ground with some rocks or a stake.   It should be tight from where you hung it to the ground.

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Step 7 – Watch it when it rains!  The rain water will adhere to your chain and travel all the way down your chain to the ground!

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We’d love to see your creativity! Tag us on: Facebook ( Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens )  Twitter (@FBBG) or Instagram (friendsofbbg)  to show off your rain chains or any of our weekly activities!

Continue to watch for our weekly fun activities for all ages to enjoy!