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After finishing our Bug Unit (CLICK HERE to see resources), we have moved on to an astronomy unit. I am using The Good and Beautiful’s Astronomy Science Unit. This Space Science Resources article includes books, activities, and supplies that will support any astronomy curriculum or can be used on its own as a fun Space Unit.
Space Science Resources
Reference Books
- National Geogarphic’s Little Kids First Big Book of Space is my favorite reference book for young children. This book introduces basic space concepts for 4-8 year olds.
- Planetarium is written for 8-12 year olds. The illustrations are beautiful and younger children would likely enjoy looking at the pictures as you summarize or read the information. Just as a warning, this book is oversized with dimensions at about 11×15 inches.
Supplies
- These Space Flash Cards are sturdy and have real NASA photographs of space objects.
- This constellation flash card deck includes 48 cards. Another option is this set that includes 88 constellations.
Activities
Coloring Book
Games
Puzzles
Other Fine Motor Activities
Constellation Lacing Cards provide a gentle introduction to constellations while your child practices fine motor skills.
Toys
Space toys can be used in pretend play with legos, Kinetic Sand, or in a sensory bin to explore and support space concepts. CLICK HERE to read more about play with Kinetic Sand.
- 3D Planets
- 10 Space figures to play with for ages 3 and up
- 11 Space figures for ages 3 and up
- 15 piece play set including astronauts, space vehicles, and space ships
Space Themed Picture Books
- Chicken in Space is a funny book about a chicken who wants to have a space adventure.
- If You Decide to Go to the Moon is a book that tells you what you need to go and how to get back.
- Mousetronaut is a book inspired by the mice that went to space with Astronaut Mark Kelly.
- Pete the Cat: Out of this World is a book about what happens in a space camp.
- This Cat in the Hat book teaches basic information about space and our solar system.
Interactive Space Science Curriculum Units
Evan Moor’s Exploring Space book includes ready to go mini-books and pictures. Also includes hands-on activities. CLICK HERE to view samples on Evan-Moor’s Website.
The Theme Pocket’s Space book explains how to make fun memory pockets and includes everything you need to learn more about the solar system through interactive activities. These could also be used to make lap books. CLICK HERE to see sample pages on Evan-Moor’s website.
Conclusion on Space Science Resources for Kids
I hope you found something helpful in this post to go with your own Space or Astronomy Unit for elementary-aged children!