Get ready to blast off as we explore outer space and flight this week! Ready for some serious fun? How about creating the phases of the moon with Oreo’s, exploring solar system mazes or building a space shuttle with recyclables? Try creating outer space themed lunches and snacks, flashlight constellations and answering the questions on “If I Could Be An Astronaut!”
- Using a favorite cookie, create Phases of the Moon!
- Create a rocket ship using a cardboard box!
- Make edible moon rocks!
- Make an anti gravity galaxy in a bottle!
- Create a dramatic play space station!
- Create flashlight constellations!
- Create a space themed game with this awesome printable!
- Print out some space mazes to practice critical thinking and fine motor skills!
- Create marshmallow constellations
- Make or buy kites to fly!
Our Pinterest board is FULL of great ideas for you to use to explore outer space from the comfort of your own home! Moon rocks are optional!
Focus on History: They taught the world to fly!
Wind, sand, and a dream of flight brought Wilbur and Orville Wright to Kitty Hawk, North 
Carolina where, after four years of scientific experimentation, they achieved the first successful airplane flights on December 17, 1903. With courage and perseverance, these self-taught engineers relied on teamwork and application of the scientific process. What they achieved changed our world forever. Click on the link above for many wonderful activities for kids!
Bessie Coleman, soared across the sky as the first African American, and the first Native American woman pilot. Known for performing flying tricks, Coleman’s nicknames were; “Brave Bessie,” “Queen Bess,” and “The Only Race Aviatrix in the World.” Her goal was to encourage women and African Americans to reach their dreams. Unfortunately, her career ended with a tragic plane crash, but her life continues to inspire people around the world. Click on her name to learn more about this amazing woman.
Resources:
- NASA Image of the day gallery
- NASA video library
- NASA Stem resources
- People of NASA
Virtual Field Trip Options:
- NASA Goddard Space Center Hunting Comets
- NASA Hubble Control Center
Webcams – You can do a google search for websites with webcams which allow you to observe space. Here is one from the International Space Station to get you started.
Videos – Look for fun videos on YouTube about outer space. Solar System 101 is good for school aged kids. The Planet Song is for toddlers and preschoolers. WALL-E, Zathura, Monsters vs. Aliens & Star Wars are all great family movies that fit with this theme. For older kids, movies like Hidden Figures and the Martian too, both are rated PG-13.
Books –
Amazon has a great list of books on outer space and astronomy.
Photo: AGeekMom; Photo.Resource.Org; Charles Edward Miller
