Space is captivating, and there is so much to explore. Stars, planets, galaxies, meteors, comets, moons, and more all await to be discovered! There are many ways we can teach our children about our tiny blue planet and the vastness that surrounds it. Below are five activities that will help you explore space with your little one.
1. Just peering through a simple telescope opens your child’s eyes to the wonders of the universe. Your child can view our amazing moon, twinkling stars, and even see other planets, depending on the quality of the telescope. If a telescope isn’t in the budget right now, you can use a pair of 10 x 50 binoculars to see deep into the night sky. The naked eye can, of course, also see the beauty of the stars. Constellations are a great place to start with little kids. Here is a guide to constellations to help get you started.
2. In our digital age, it’s easier than ever before to explore space. You can watch live streaming of Earth from space and live views from the space station. You can follow NASA on Twitter and Instagram for breathtaking photos as well as the International Space Station on Twitter and Instagram for even more amazing footage. Online, you and your child can watch live launches, see real astronauts at work, and much more. There are also an abundance of YouTube videos and other resources to help you explore space with your little one.
3. Books are another great way for children to learn about space. Your child can learn about space with Dr. Seuss or National Geographic and read about Neil Armstrong or fascinating rockets! What better way to inspire a love of reading early in your child’s life than by diving straight into fascinating books that captivate your child’s imagination? Here are 5 great books to get you started.
a. Little Kids First Big Book of Space
b. There’s No Place Like Space
c. Our Solar System (Science for Toddlers)
e. What’s Out There? A Book about Space
