Out-of-This-World Adventure
Help prepare your child to take a ride on a rocket. Talk about how astronauts study and train for years to go on a space mission, and how they are brave men and women that help us learn about our solar system. Ask your child to pretend that he or she is going into space to gather information about the moon. Like George, create a checklist of what he or she should bring. Talk about why each item is needed. Don’t forget things like food, oxygen tanks, clothing, and a favorite comfort object like a stuffed animal or blanket from home. Finally, have your child draw a picture of what he or she looks like inside the rocket.
Download the Space Suit Coloring Page
Star Light, Star Bright
Explain to your child that a constellation is a group of stars that makes a pattern in the sky. Discuss how many constellations are named after mythical animals and people. On a clear night look at the sky and point out any constellations that you see. Depending on what time of year it is, some of the most visible constellations are the Big Dipper, Orion, and Scorpius.
Once you and your child have seen some real constellations, have him or her create one. Ask your child which friend, family member, or pet he or she wants to immortalize in the night sky. Discuss what qualities this person or animal has, and then have your child draw a shape to resemble one of them. Name the constellation and hang it above your child’s bed. Let your child use to star stickers or glow-in-the-dark paint to decorate the picture.
Download the Night Sky Worksheet