What kid doesn’t dream about being an astronaut one day and visiting the stars? All future astronauts and rocket scientists will love these fun and free space activities for kids. It’s time to blast off for learning!
1. Make a model solar system
This is one of those classic space activities for kids that everyone should try at least once. There are hundreds of ways to make one; find one option at the link.
Learn more: Gift of Curiosity
2. Snack on the moon phases
What goes better with Oreos than a glass of milk? How about a little bit of moon science! We love lessons you can eat when you’re done, don’t you?
Learn more: Science Bob
3. Use geoboards to map constellations
Geoboards are such a cool classroom tool, and you can use them for so many things—like making constellations. Get free printable patterns below.
Learn more: School Time Snippets
4. Create an astronaut training center
Space activities for kids like this one encourage them to use their imaginations while they learn. Get lots of cool ideas for stocking your astronaut training center at the link.
Learn more: Early Learning Ideas
5. Blow a rocket to space
Color the free printable rocket templates, then mount them to straw launchers and send them soaring!
Learn more: Buggy and Buddy
6. Play a solar system flashcard game
Use these free printable planet flashcards and re-purpose an old Hedbanz set. No game set? Just tape them to kids’ foreheads instead.
Learn more: Simple Everyday Mom
7. Find out why the moon has craters
This clever science demo simulates the action that formed the moon’s craters. All you need is flour, baby oil, and some small rocks.
Learn more: I Can Teach My Child
8. Assemble marshmallow constellations
Here’s some more yummy science to try! Use toothpicks to connect the marshmallow “stars” to form constellations.
Learn more: Play Teach Repeat
9. Play with galaxy playdough
This gorgeous DIY dough is so much fun to play with while you read a book or watch a documentary about space. Learn how it’s made at the link.
Learn more: Days of a Domestic Dad
10. Launch a bottle rocket
This is another one of those classic space activities for kids you simply have to try. Visit the link for the full how-to.
Learn more: Wikihow
11. Model planets from clay
There’s no better way to get to know the individual planets than to model them from clay. Try using foam balls in the center so you don’t need quite so much clay for each one.
Learn more: 3Dinosaurs
12. Build a LEGO moon rover
Aspiring engineers will love this STEM challenge! Set a series of parameters their creations must meet, then put them to the test.
Learn more: Adventures in Mommydom
13. Light up the constellations
First make your own LED light magnets, then use them to map out all your favorite constellations.
Learn more: Buggy and Buddy
14. Design a space lander
The challenge? Design a space lander than allows two passengers to land safely on the planet’s surface, using only some very basic materials. This one will really get them thinking.
Learn more: Vivify STEM
15. Join the NASA Kids’ Club
What better place to find space activities for kids than NASA? Their Kids’ Club is full of games, videos, activities, and much more, and it’s all free.
Learn more: NASA Kids’ Club
16. Put the planets in order
Round up all the balls in your house (and a handful of pompoms for asteroids). Lay them out in order with their relative sizes as a guide.
Learn more: Inspiration Laboratories
17. Craft a moon phases toy
This cool little DIY toy demonstrates the phases of the moon. It’s a snap to make with a couple of clear plastic cups and some construction paper.
Learn more: Happy Tot Shelf
18. Shine a constellation flashlight
Turn a flashlight into a star projector by poking holes into black construction paper. Take it into a dark room and let it shine!
Learn more: Handmade Charlotte
19. Recycle cardboard tubes into space shuttles
During its heyday, the space shuttle was the most sophisticated spaceship around. Help kids learn about it by building little models from cardboard tubes.
Learn more: A Little Pinch of Perfect
20. Eat a fruity solar system
Snack on the solar system as you learn! This activity combines a healthy snack with space fun.
Learn more: Me and B Make Tea
21. Assemble a constellation luminary
How pretty is this little constellations luminary? Get the free printable and learn how to put it together at the link.
Learn more: Red Ted Art
22. Melt crayons into planet sun catchers
Round up some old crayons and use their shavings to make pretty planet sun catchers to bright up your windows.
Learn more: Pre-K Pages
23. Learn how planets orbit the sun
This quick demo is a good way to introduce the concept of orbits to little learners, using a pie plate, some playdough, and a ball or marble.
Learn more: Gift of Curiosity
Can’t get enough space? Check out these 25 Amazing Space-Themed Classroom Ideas.
Plus, 27 Great Space Books to Celebrate National Astronomy Day.
