The Solar Eclipse ranks among my top experiences in life. I know, I know…it sounds hyperbolic, but I promise you, it is anything BUT that. It was a full sensory experience – the world around me quieted…birds and crickets were silent. The temperature dropped markedly. We watched darkness descend in mere minutes. The people near me held their collective breath until THAT.VERY.MOMENT. And the crowd, in unison – shouted their excitement and whispered their awe. I’m one of the many who felt an uncontrollable urge to cry from the rarity and beauty that is the world we inhabit. (I’ll have a full recap shortly!)
In that spirit, I wanted to share a few games and learning resources that can keep your kiddos excited.
5 Ways to Keep Your Kids Interested in Science AFTER the Solar Eclipse
Giant Inflatable Solar System – Learning Resources
What a great way to keep the conversation going. This set features nine planets (including Pluto), as well as the sun and the moon. Each easily inflates to a different size with a hand (or foot) pump. Additionally, each planet has hooks so you can decorate a child’s room or STEM area at your school.
GeoSafari® Motorized Solar System
This is a favorite of mine – not only for its ability to teach the rotation of eight planets around the sun, (Nepture is the furthest away!) but also for its ‘light-up’ features. You have the option to switch the yellow sun globe for a black top that will showcase the constellations on a dark ceiling.
The Purple Cow’s Mapedia Solar System Puzzle
I can testify that you will learn a ton about the Solar System by taking the time to put this puzzle together. Not only does it share basic facts (the size of the planets), but it also highlights at least one cool fact you might not know. Did you know Earth is 70% water? Or that Mars experiences seasons as we do?
Paul and the Moon
Ideal for the younger set, this is a combination of a game and a bedtime story. Little Paul considers the Moon to be his best friend. Each night, as he is put to bed, he talks to the moon about his day. One day, Paul learns the Moon has lost something important. By playing the game, your little ones can use ‘Sparkle Sprites’ to help Paul make the Moon happy again. As the game can be completed in less than 10 minutes – and can be played by 1-6 players, it is perfect for kids three and up.
Outerspace Hideout by hide-a-boo
Who doesn’t love a fort? As a kid, any space like this was my favorite. This tent fits perfectly over a card table or a few chairs to create a secret, space-loving, learning place. And the back of the tent can be used as a puppet backdrop.
Do you have a favorite?
Happy Post-Solar Eclipse!
This is great!!! It’s so important to keep the interest up! We try to have stem projects at home once a month with our kids on a Saturday morning in the Winter. It’s hard to do but they actually love it once the project gets going. They definitely need that reinforcement! I love your post! Thanks so much. Found the link through Handmade hangout party!
Oh my goodness – I LOVE that you do STEM regularly at home with your kids – what a great idea. Where do you find the inspiration for the projects you do together?