A Trip to Outer Space – Ideas and Activities for Kids
So, this summer, I want to keep things fun but also give the girls the opportunity to learn something new. This idea led to a lot of research that ended up here. And, the option we went for immediately?
SPACE WEEK!!!
The main idea was to introduce the girls to our universe. Sounds intimidating right? But in the end, the goal was for them to realize how vast our universe is, and that we haven’t finished exploring it yet.
Honestly, I feel we’ve (as a country, maybe even the world) become so self-absorbed lately that we might have forgotten this fascinating fact…
I for one am thrilled that NASA released this video about 2024!!
When it comes to homeschool, I put major emphasis on language arts and math. Yes, even during the summer. That’s the best part about homeschool. You know how to educationally challenge your kids, and how to reintroduce topics to keep them fresh.
So during the summer, the plan is to reintroduce topics we’ve already covered to keep strategies top of mind so that when we start up again (in the new school year) it’s not the harsh dichotomy of free time vs. school time.
So, let me share some of the resources that I scoured Pinterest for to host an educationally inspiring space week…
Space Theme Math Activities
Alien Addition Facts Sort (Kindergarten Connection) – This activity was super easy for Nora. It was puzzle she was eager to solve. I just wish there were a few blank flashcards so that I could expand beyond 10. Regardless, I am definitely holding onto these flashcards for the future.
Outer Space Pre-K Math Worksheets Packet (Real Life at Home) This packet kept Sadie busy for the entirety of space week. We conquered a couple of sheets each day.
Rocket Measuring- I cannot tell you where this freebie comes from but, it is a quick + easy summer math activity that was very on theme.
Monster Counting – I can’t seem to find the blog I originally pinned from for this activity (ugh, trust me I looked) but, this one is pretty darn close to what I initially downloaded. And, I was able to pass the monsters off as aliens!!
Color by Sum (Education.com) I turn to this site very often for supplemental sheets to highlight the work we are covering in our curriculum. And, I was so excited to see this space themed worksheet. It reminded Nora of her Kinder days but, is totally geared towards a first grader.
KID FRIENDLY SPACE MOVIES
Capture The Flag (2015) – This movie was an absolute hit for space week. We streamed a 48 hour rental, and the girls were relentless in their requests to watch this movie.
Treasure Planet (2002) – I have never heard of this movie before space week. It involves a treasure hunt across the universe. The girls loved it!
Sensory Activities
Homemade Playdough – I shared more about which homemade playdough recipe we use here. You will never believe how easy it is to make playdough with the ingredients in your spice cabinet.
Outer Space Sensory Bin – The girls loved playing with this sensory bin. I know I could have totally diy’ed this but, for me it just wasn’t’ worth the hassle.
Pipe Cleaner Constellations (123 Homeschool 4 Me) – I researched the girls’ zodiac constellations for this activity. Have you ever looked into your zodiac constellation? It was pretty fun to recreate in such a simple, hands on way.
7 Space Themed Books For Language Arts
To keep language arts simple during the summer, I like to have the girls participate in many read alouds. Basically, I read a book, and they share what is most memorable. Then the girls will draw a picture of this memory, and Nora will construct and write a sentence to encapsulate it.
The Big Dipper (Branley, Franklyn M.)
The Moon Book (Gibbons, Gail)
Henry’s Stars (Elliot, David)
The Stars in Outer Space (Rustard, Martha)
Glow in the Dark Constellations (Thompson, C.E.)
Space Maps – Your Tour of the Universe (Albanese, Lara)
The Star People (Nelson, S.D.)
Astronaut Training + A Visit to the Planetarium
One day during the week, I took the girls to the local trampoline park in the name of “astronaut training”. They had a blast. Then, over the weekend we caught a show at the Reichert Planetarium at the Vanderbilt Mansion in Centerport, New York.
I remember visiting this planetarium when I was younger, and I may be a bit partial but, it’s the best I have ever been too. If you ever find yourself on the North Shore of Long Island, you should definitely put this stop on your list. There are breathtaking views from the grounds, and you will (without a doubt) be in awe of your surroundings.
We saw the show Stars, and at just about 40 minutes, it was the perfect length for the girls to sit through. They were blown away by the overall experience.
