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astronomy

Learning About The Solar System Free Cosmic Wonders Guide

November 30, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some learning about the solar system activities and a free Cosmic Wonders Fun Guide to the Universe’s Coolest Events. Look at my other page Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning.

Learning about the cool events in the night sky printable has family activities and learning prompts.

And there are many hands-on ideas to keep your kids learning. For example, your child can build a comet model and keep a sky journal.

Learning About The Solar System Free Cosmic Wonders Guide

However, you want to explain what are cosmic events. Your child may know some of them.

For instance, they are supernovas which is a star that when it dies it explodes. Too, some supernovas can be seen from Earth without a telescope.

And a shooting star which your child may be familiar with is a tiny piece of space rock burning up in Earth’s atmosphere.

BOOKS ABOUT THE WONDERS OF THE SKY FOR KIDS

Next, look at a few of these books about the universe.

5 Books About Awesome Things in the Skies

Whether it’s the Northern Lights or shooting stars these books bring the wonder of the skies to life!

Arctic Lights, Arctic Nights

Imagine a land where the sun rises at 1:58 a.m. in the summer and shines for less than four hours on a winter's day. The animals in the wilderness near Fairbanks, Alaska, witness some of the world's greatest temperature extremes and light variations ever year. At an average low of -16 degrees Fahrenheit, the winters may be unpleasantly frigid, but the light shows are always glorious!

The Lights That Dance in the Night

The northern lights bring wonder and joy to all the creatures who bask under their mysterious glow in this gorgeous picture book from the creator of the holiday hit The Tree That's Meant to Be.From tiny specks of dust to gleaming rays in the dark, the northern lights travel across the Arctic, uniting every creature in a celebration over land and sea.In this wonderfully wintery picture book, Yuval Zommer imagines the northern lights' fleeting journey from space to Earth and how they weave a special magic for the animals and people living in the frozen lands below.

Shooting Stars

Explains what shooting stars are, what they are made of, and what happens to them when they land on Earth.

The Mysteries of the Universe: Discover the best-kept secrets of space

Space is so much bigger than young minds can fathom and there is always more to learn. The Mysteries of the Universe is a stunning space encyclopedia for young readers to explore, with reference pages packed with fascinating information, little learners will be captivated as they journey through the vastness of the Universe. From planets and asteroids to black holes and galaxies, every page of this enthralling space book reveals the secrets behind more than 100 celestial objects, and will inspire  youngsters as they journey through the vastness of the Universe. Each celestial body is shown both photographically and illustrated, and children will love poring over the detailed close-up images.Get ready to explore fun facts and exciting new scientific discoveries as this best-selling picture book will illuminate imaginations and spark curious minds to explore the vastness of space. The engaging storybook-style descriptions and simple text shed a light on facts, myths, and key discoveries about the universe, perfect for children aged 6-8 to explore the wonders of our solar system and beyond.

Northern Lights:the award-winning, internationally bestselling, now full-colour illustrated edition

A stunning full-colour illustrated gift hardback to celebrate the 25th anniversary of NORTHERN LIGHTS, with breathtaking art throughout by Chris Wormell.

First published in 1995, and acclaimed as a modern masterpiece, this first book in the series won the UK's top awards for children's literature.

“Without this child, we shall all die.”

Lyra Belacqua and her animal daemon live half-wild and carefree among scholars of Jordan College, Oxford.

The destiny that awaits her will take her to the frozen lands of the Arctic

Next, look at these solar system activities to add to your learning day.

SOLAR SYSTEM ACTIVITIES

  • How To Make A Cool Paint Pour Aurora Borealis Craft
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • Oreo Phases Of The Moon Kids Science They’ll Love
  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
Learning About The Solar System Free Cosmic Wonders Guide

Also, look at what is included in this free printable.

COSMIC WONDERS OF THE UNIVERSITY

  • meteor showers
  • auroras
  • solar & lunar eclipses
  • comets
  • planetary alignments
  • supermoons
  • blood moons
  • zodiacal light
  • earthshine
  • sun halos

HOW TO GET THE FREE COSMIC WONDERS GUIDE

Now, how to grab the freebie.  It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronomy, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, science, space

Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

April 28, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You’ll love these fun facts about the life of an astronaut. Grab more ideas on my page Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages.

Being an astronaut is no doubt one of the coolest jobs.

They float around spaceships like they’re swimming.

Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

And besides learning about different subjects like math, engineering and science they have to train super hard.

So, their life is anything but ordinary.

Most astronauts have strong backgrounds in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

ASTRONAUT BOOKS

Next, look at these books about astronauts and space.

10 Astronaut Books for Kids Who love to Read and be Read to

Add some of  these books to your reading day or to your home library to learn about astronauts.

An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything

Travel to space and back with astronaut Chris Hadfield's "enthralling" bestseller as your eye-opening guide (Slate). Colonel Chris Hadfield has spent decades training as an astronaut and has logged nearly 4000 hours in space. During this time he has broken into a Space Station with a Swiss army knife, disposed of a live snake while piloting a plane, and been temporarily blinded while clinging to the exterior of an orbiting spacecraft. The secret to Col. Hadfield's success-and survival-is an unconventional philosophy he learned at NASA: prepare for the worst- and enjoy every moment of it.

Destination Moon: The Spiritual and Scientific Voyage of the Eighth Man to Walk on the Moon

Destination: Moon is the adventurous story of the eighth man to walk on the moon, Colonel Jim Irwin. Discover the rigors of space training and how he almost failed to make the cut. Rejoice with Irwin as he looks back toward Earth and praises the Creator with his moving testimony. Informative and inspiring for all ages. Includes behind-the-scenes stories and many color photos from NASA.

Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 (Richard Jackson Books (Atheneum Hardcover))

Simply told, grandly shown, and now with eight additional pages of brand-new art and more in-depth information about the historic moon landing, here is the flight of Apollo 11. Here for a new generation of readers and explorers are the steady astronauts clicking themselves into gloves and helmets, strapping themselves into sideways seats. Here are their great machines in all their detail and monumentality, the ROAR of rockets, and the silence of the Moon. Here is a story of adventure and discovery—a story of leaving and returning during the summer of 1969, and a story of home, seen whole, from far away.

One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong

As a young boy, Neil Armstrong had a recurring dream in which he held his breath and floated high above the people, houses, and cars. He spent his free time reading stacks of flying magazines, building model airplanes, and staring through the homemade telescope mounted on the roof of his neighbor's garage. As a teenager, Neil became obsessed with the idea of flight, working odd jobs to pay for flying lessons at a nearby airport. He earned his student pilot's license on his sixteenth birthday. But who was to know that this shy boy, who also loved books and music, would become the first person to set foot on the moon, on July 20, 1969. Here is the inspiring story of one boy's dream - a dream of flying that landed him more than 200,000 miles away in space, gazing upon the awesome sight of a tiny earth hanging suspended in a perfectly black sky.

Reaching for the Moon

Perfect for the 50th anniversary of the Moon landing in summer 2019!

It’s been fifty years since Buzz Aldrin walked on the Moon. But the journey didn’t begin when he stepped on board Apollo 11 that fateful day in July 1969. It began the day he was born.

This picture book is Buzz Aldrin's story, in his words. Wendell Minor's gorgeous paintings evoke the wonder of space exploration for young readers.

Becoming an astronaut took more than education, discipline, and physical strength. It took years of determination and believing that any goal was possible—from riding a bike alone across the George Washington Bridge at age ten to making a footprint on the moon.

A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

Did you know that the earth is covered in three trillion trees? And that seven billion people weigh about the same as ten quadrillion ants? Our world is full of constantly changing numbers, from a hundred billion trillion stars in space to thirty-seven billion rabbits on Earth. Can you imagine that many of anything?

The playful illustrations from New York Times–bestselling artist Isabel Greenberg and the friendly, straightforward voice of
author Seth Fishman illuminate some of the biggest numbers in the universe—a hundred billion trillion stars—and the smallest—one unique and special YOU. Here is a book for story time, for science time, for math time, for bedtime, and all the times in between.

A is for Astronaut: Blasting Through the Alphabet (Sleeping Bear Alphabet Books)

Winner! 2019 Nebraska Book Award Retired astronaut Clayton Anderson takes readers on an A to Z flight through the alphabet from astronaut and blastoff to spacewalk and Zulu Time. Topics cover the history of NASA, science, and practical aspects of being an astronaut using fun poems for each letter paired with longer expository text in the sidebars. Perfect for science buffs, budding astronauts, and astronomy lovers of all ages.

Curious George and the Rocket

This lively story captures George’s adventure of becoming the first space monkey from the classic Curious George Gets a Medal.

Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon (Mouse Adventures)

But what happened next? Torben Kuhlmann's stunning new book transports readers to the moon and beyond! On the heels of Lindbergh: The Tale of a Flying Mouse comes Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon—where dreams are determined only by the size of your imagination and the biggest innovators are the smallest of all. The book ends with a brief
non-fiction history of human space travel—from Galileo’s observations concerning the nature of the universe to man's first steps on the moon.

How We Got to the Moon: The People, Technology, and Daring Feats of Science Behind Humanity's Greatest Adventure

This beautifully illustrated, oversized guide to the people and technology of the moon landing by award-winning author/illustrator John Rocco (illustrator of the Percy Jackson series) is a must-have for space fans, classrooms, and tech geeks.Everyone knows of Neil Armstrong's famous first steps on the moon. But what did it really take to get us there?

Also, look at these fun facts about thee life of an astronaut.

10 FUN FACTS ABOUT THE LIFE OF AN ASTRONAUT

  1. They study engineering, science, medicine, and even Russian, since they often work with international space agencies.
  2. Astronauts sleep in sleeping bags attached to the wall so they don’t float away.
  3. Astronauts typically spend 6 months on the International Space Station (ISS).
  4. Microgravity refers to the condition where gravity seems to be very small. In space, astronauts experience microgravity. Their muscles weaken and their bones lose density.
  5. They work and do experiments in space. For example, they fix parts of the space station, explore more about zero gravity and even how plants grow in space.
  6. Food has come a long way. They can choose their food and it’s on a magnetic tray so it doesn’t float away.
  7. They have to exercise daily for about 2 hours since their muscles weaken.
  8. Space walks can be dangerous so astronauts use tethers so they don’t float away.
  9. Even brushing their teeth is an adventure. They can’t let the water float away. So they use little water and swallow the toothpaste.
  10. When returning to earth rehab and recovery are important since it takes astronauts months to adjust to gravity.
Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

Finally, look at this free printable Pioneering Astronauts to learn about Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Sally Ride, Valentina Tereshkova and Chris Hadfield.

HOW TO GET THE FREE PIONEERING ASTRONAUTS PRINTABLE

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronaut, astronomy, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, life science

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

February 23, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a 4 weeks free Galileo unit study and a fun telescope craft. Look at my other pages Best Homeschool Unit Studies and Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning.

To make a Galileo unit study exciting we are crafting our own refracting telescope and look at some other great ideas to build it up.

A refracting telescope is a type of optical telescope that uses lenses to focus light and create an image of a distant object.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

It is the oldest and most common type of telescope.

And was first developed in the 17th century by Galileo Galilei.

Galileo Galilei was an Italian astronomer, physicist, engineer, philosopher, and mathematician who lived in the 16th and 17th centuries.

He is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of science.

His work laid the foundation for modern physics as well as the development of calculus.

He was born in Pisa, Italy, in 1564 and he showed an early interest in science and mathematics, and he studied at the University of Pisa.

After graduating, Galileo taught mathematics at the University of Padua for the next 18 years.

While he was there, he made a number of important discoveries.

He developed a new theory of motion, which showed that objects fall at the same rate regardless of their weight.

Also, he also invented the telescope, which allowed him to make detailed observations of the planets and stars.

KIDS BOOKS ABOUT GALILEO

First, look at these fun books

4 Books About Galileo

Add these books to our home library. Use for a unit study or reading for the day.

Along Came Galileo

One of the most important figures to come out of the awakening world of the Renaissance was Galileo Galelei. Galileo was forever asking questions. Is it possible to measure heat? Can you weigh air? Does the earth stand still or does it move? How fast do objects fall to the earth? These questions, and his answers to them, led to some of the most important discoveries ever in astronomy, physics, mathematics, and the natural world.

Galileo and the Magic Numbers

Sixteenth century Italy produced Galileo, a genius who marked the world with his studies and hypotheses about mathematical, physical, and astronomical truths. His father, musician Vincenzio Galilei said, “Truth is not found behind a man’s reputation. Truth appears only when the answers to questions are searched out by a free mind. This is not the easy path in life but it is the most rewarding.” Galileo challenged divine law and the physics of Aristotle, and questioned everything in search of truths. And it was through this quest for truth that he was able to establish a structure for modern science.

Starry Messenger: Galileo Galilei (Caldecott Honor Book)

In every age there are courageous people who break with tradition to explore new ideas and challenge accepted truths. Galileo Galilei was just such a man--a genius--and the first to turn the telescope to the skies to map the heavens. In doing so, he offered objective evidence that the earth was not the fixed center of the universe but that it and all the other planets revolved around the sun. Galileo kept careful
notes and made beautiful drawings of all that he observed. Through his telescope he brought the starts down to earth for everyone to see.

Galileo's Daughter: A Historical Memoir of Science, Faith, and Love

Inspired by a long fascination with Galileo, and by the remarkable surviving letters of his daughter Maria Celeste, a cloistered nun, Dava Sobel has crafted a biography that dramatically recolors the personality and accomplishments of a mythic figure whose early-seventeenth-century clash with Catholic doctrine continues to define the schism between science and religion-the man Albert Einstein called "the father of modern physics-indeed of modern science altogether." It is also a stunning portrait of Galileo's daughter, a person hitherto lost to history, described by her father as "a woman of exquisite mind, singular goodness, and most tenderly attached to me."

Then look at these history and geography Galileo unit study ideas.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY GALILEO UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

He was the first person to observe the four largest moons of Jupiter and discovered the phases of Venus.

Galileo published his book “The Starry Messenger” in 1610 and described his observations of the solar system. His book provided strong evidence in support of the Copernican theory, which said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.

This important work has been translated into more than 100 languages.

Grab a map or atlas and help your child locate different NASA space center locations throughout the US and the world.

  • White Sands Test Facility-Cruces, NM
  • Ames Research Center-Moffett Field, CA
  • Armstrong Flight Research Center-Edwards, CA
  • Glenn Research Center-Cleveland, OH
  • Goddard Space Flight Center-Greenbelt, MD
  • Goddard Institute of Space Studies-New York, NY
  • IV and V Facility-Fairmont, WV
  • Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)-Pasadena, CA
  • Johnson Space Center-Houston, TX
  • Kennedy Space Center-FL
  • Langley Research Center-Hampton, VA
  • Marshall Space Flight Center-Huntsville, AL
  • NASA HQ-Washington, D.C.
  • Stennis Space Center-MS
  • Wallops Flight Facility-Wallops Island, VA

Then look at more hands-on ideas.

  • Galileo history lesson
  • Explore the Galileo Museum in Florence
  • Free Ancient Astronomy Notebooking Pages
  • Create a visual timeline showing the development of telescopes, from Galileo’s first telescope to the Hubble Space Telescope.
  • Constellations for Kids Free Cards
  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

NATURE & SCIENCE GALILEO UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

  • Let your learning cover modern space explorers as well as the first ones in the field. Learn 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream for a tasty lesson.
  • You can purchase a basic Telescope but it is also fun to make your own refracting telescope and I have the easy instructions for making one below.
  • Conduct Galileo’s Famous Falling Objects Experiment
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Watch Galileo Galilei on Youtube to learn about the amazing scientist, physicist mathematician and more that contributed so much to today’s space knowledge and inventions.
  • Physical Science Experiments Swinging with Galileo
  • How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS GALILEO UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

  • Simple Space Themed Addition and Subtraction is a solid way to learn basic math facts while keeping with the unit.
  • These Find The Letter Worksheets with a space theme are perfect for preschoolers and kindergarteners.
  • Learn about time and motion. Galileo famously discovered that objects fall at the same rate regardless of weight.
  • These Space Counting Mats can be laminated and used over and over with small treats like candies or crackers as well as other non edible manipulatives.
  • Teach kids about angles.
  • Learn about planetary distances.
  • Write a short biography about Galileo.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

Additionally, look at arts and crafts ideas for learning about Galileo.

ARTS & CRAFTS GALILEO UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 4

  • Look at this Space STEAM: How to Make Felted Ball Planets, a neat new handicraft to learn.
  • Focus on Venus as you talk about the fact that Galileo discovered its phases with this Venus Craft.
  • Galileo Learning Ideas & Star Viewer Craft
  • This space themed Galaxy Play Dough is good for building up fine motor skills and making an already fun theme even better.
  • Create an interactive Spinning Solar System with building blocks for an impressive piece that kids will enjoy building and putting on display.
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids

Next, look at more best homeschool unit studies.

MORE BEST HOMESCHOOL UNIT STUDIES

  • 4 Weeks Free Homeschool Panda Unit Study & Best Hands-On Ideas
  • Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study
  • Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study
  • 4 Week Free China Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • 4 Week Free Shakespeare Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • 4 Week Free Middle Ages Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning
  • How to Incorporate Subjects into a Fun Homeschool Cooking Unit Study
  • Mushroom Unit Study and Kids Learning Activities
  • North American Robin Bird Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Ocean Lapbook and Homeschool Unit Study
  • Kids Dandelion Flower Unit Study and Easy Tea Recipe & Notebooking Pages
  • Chicken Unit Study and Anatomy of an Egg Felt Activity & Worksheet

HOW TO MAKE A TELESCOPE CRAFT

Finally, look at how to make a telescope craft.

You will need:

  • An empty paper towel roll
  • Masking, duct, packing tape
  • Markers, crayons, stickers
  • Old pair of reading glasses (can be purchased at Dollar Tree)
  • Scissors
4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

First, cut lengthwise down one of the paper towel tubes.

Squeeze it lightly together and slide it inside of the uncut tube.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

Before moving on let your child decorate the outside of their “telescope” with crayons or markers, you could also use space themed stickers like these.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

Pop the lenses carefully out of the glasses.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

Place one lens with the concave (curved outward) side face away from the tube, use duct tape or masking tape to secure it to the end, covering as little of the glass as possible.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

On the other end of the telescope tape the second lens with the curve facing the inside of the tube.

4 Weeks Free Galileo Unit Study & How to Make a Telescope Craft

To focus, slide the inner paper towel tube in and out as you look through the end.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: astronomy, Galileo, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, science, space

Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets

February 15, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some easy study of the solar system interactive worksheets. Pair this with my lapbook and Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages for a fun study.

You know I’m a huge advocate for hands-on learning.

And these study of the solar system interactive worksheets fit with that slant.

Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets

Interactive worksheets can have fill in the blank, puzzles, word searches and a place for or child to draw.

When you add them along with my lapbook and astronomy unit study you can easily study the planets for a week or longer.

So, I have 10 free pages about the solar system.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE SOLAR SYSTEM

First, look at some of these books to add to your reading day.

11 Astronomy Resources & Books

Add one or two books to your unit study or use one as a spine for studying about space.

The Planets

From the burning surface of Venus to the freezing darkness of Neptune, Gail Gibbons takes children on a tour of our planetary neighbors—which are very different from each other in size, shape, orbit, and even weather.

The Planets

With her bestsellers Longitude and Galileo's Daughter, Dava Sobel introduced readers to her rare gift for weaving complex scientific concepts into a compelling narrative. Now Sobel brings her full talents to bear on what is perhaps her most ambitious topic to date-the planets of our solar system. Sobel explores the origins and oddities of the planets through the lens of popular culture, from astrology, mythology, and science fiction to art, music, poetry, biography, and history. Written in her characteristically graceful prose, The Planets is a stunningly original celebration of our solar system and offers a distinctive view of our place in the universe.

Who Was Neil Armstrong?

On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and, to an audience of over 450 million people, proclaimed his step a "giant leap for mankind."

Find the Constellations

Containing star charts, a guide to the constellations, and details about seasons and the movement of the objects we see in the sky, this classic book makes H. A. Rey’s passion for astronomy evident on every page.

New updates concentrate on the planetary and solar system information in the latter part of the book. Facts and figures for each planet have been revised, and new scientific information has been added, such as Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet.

Where Is Our Solar System?

Our solar system consists of eight planets, as well as numerous moons, comets, asteroids, and meteoroids. For thousands of years, humans believed that Earth was at the center of the Universe, but all of that changed in the 17th century. Astronomers like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, and Isaac Newton proposed the unthinkable theory that Earth and the other planets actually revolved around the Sun. 

Signs and Seasons Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

Gorgeous. Worth every penny! Signs & Seasons is an introduction to “Classical Astronomy,” the traditional, historical approach to the sky, as had been practiced from ancient times. The biblical basis for astronomy

The Mysteries of the Universe: Discover the best-kept secrets

Space is so much bigger than young minds can fathom and there is always more to learn. The Mysteries of the Universe is a stunning space encyclopedia for young readers to explore, with reference pages packed with fascinating information, little learners will be captivated as they journey through the vastness of the Universe. 

Basher Science: Astronomy: Out of this World!

Like a Facebook for the universe, Astronomy gives every important celestial body and concept its own page, where readers can learn its behaviors, likes, and dislikes up close and personal. From the flashy stars to the shadowy and strange objects that hang out like loners at the edges of the universe, no player goes unnoticed. 

Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky, The

The Stargazers Guide to the Night Sky offers everything you need to explore the remarkable beauty of the stars, moon, and planets. Dr. Jason Lisle, a research scientist with a masters and Ph.D. in astrophysics provides a very thorough, practical and easy to read resource to fuel the curiosity of amateur astronomers ages 10 to 100.

Solar System Puzzle Wooden Space Toys for Kids

【Planet Toys for Kids】Our wooden solar system puzzle is the PERFECT CHOICE for you and your kids as it is made from natural wood, vivid planet patten with well designed. This preschool learning activities is suitable for 3+ years kids and represents the perfect activity to learn through play!

Solar System Planetarium - DIY Glow In The Dark Astronomy Planet Model

The Solar System Planetarium set teaches children about the wonders of the solar system. Just assemble, paint and learn.

This set includes planets, stencils, squeeze glow paint pen, rods, string, a fact filled wall chart and 10 sets of Kidz Quiz questions.

Next, look at these hands on ideas to go with these fun interactive worksheets.

STUDY OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM HANDS ON IDEAS

  • How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • How To Make Puffy Paint Planets And Free Notebooking Pages
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids
  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • Geronimo Stilton Mouse into Space:How to Make an EASY Straw Rocket
  • Geronimo Stilton Theme Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)

Also, look at this fun lapbook.

ASTRONOMY LAPBOOK

This lapbook has two sets of minibooks which are the same.

The only difference is that one set has information filled in each minibook with a cursive font.

Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • Because I use a combination of cursive and print fonts, I aim my lapbooks toward upper elementary up to high school.
  • The lapbook could be used for high school when your student uses the lapbook with minibooks with blank inside pages. Another option for high school is to mix and match the minibooks with facts filled in with minibooks with blank inside pages.
  • This is a .pdf instant downloadable product and not a physical product.
  • You are paying for the printables, the lapbook.
  • You can use any reference materials, books, or online resources to complete the lapbook. I don’t provide links in the lapbooks for filling in the information. This keeps my prices low for my products, but I do provide free links and unit studies on my site as I can.
  • My printables are very flexible. You decide which topics you want your children to research.  Also, you can mix and match filled in and blank minibooks of your choice.
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
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Finally, look at what comes with the free solar system interactive worksheets.

FREE SOLAR SYSTEM INTERACTIVE WORKSHEETS

Look at the free printables in this download.

  • The Sun A Super Star!
  • Moon The Night Light
  • Mars The Red Planet
  • Mercury The Swift Planet
  • Venus The Morning Star
  • Earth The Blue Planet
  • Jupiter The Giant Planet
  • Saturn The Ringed Planet
  • Uranus The Ice Giant
  • Neptune The Big Blue Planet

HOW TO GET THE FREE INTERACTIVE WORKSHEETS

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronomy, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, planets, science, space, worksheets

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

November 18, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This mini solar system activity is such a fun hand-on idea for multiple ages. Also, look at my Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages for more great ideas.

Especially if you have hands-on learners and minimal space in your home this is the perfect sized activity.

Besides this mini solar system sensory bottles activity is a fun and educational project that combines art, science, and sensory play.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Anyone fascinated by space will love how the bottles visually represent the planets, moon, stars and sun.

And besides learning facts about the planets, you can expand this hands-on activity.

For example, have your child put the planets in order from the sun.

Also, you can have your child put them in order from the smallest to biggest.

And sort the planets by which ones have fewer moons and which one has less moons.

BOOKS ABOUT ASTRONOMY FOR KIDS

Also, look at some of these books about space, the planets and our solar system.

11 Astronomy Resources & Books

Add one or two books to your unit study or use one as a spine for studying about space.

The Planets

From the burning surface of Venus to the freezing darkness of Neptune, Gail Gibbons takes children on a tour of our planetary neighbors—which are very different from each other in size, shape, orbit, and even weather.

The Planets

With her bestsellers Longitude and Galileo's Daughter, Dava Sobel introduced readers to her rare gift for weaving complex scientific concepts into a compelling narrative. Now Sobel brings her full talents to bear on what is perhaps her most ambitious topic to date-the planets of our solar system. Sobel explores the origins and oddities of the planets through the lens of popular culture, from astrology, mythology, and science fiction to art, music, poetry, biography, and history. Written in her characteristically graceful prose, The Planets is a stunningly original celebration of our solar system and offers a distinctive view of our place in the universe.

Who Was Neil Armstrong?

On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and, to an audience of over 450 million people, proclaimed his step a "giant leap for mankind."

Find the Constellations

Containing star charts, a guide to the constellations, and details about seasons and the movement of the objects we see in the sky, this classic book makes H. A. Rey’s passion for astronomy evident on every page.

New updates concentrate on the planetary and solar system information in the latter part of the book. Facts and figures for each planet have been revised, and new scientific information has been added, such as Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet.

Where Is Our Solar System?

Our solar system consists of eight planets, as well as numerous moons, comets, asteroids, and meteoroids. For thousands of years, humans believed that Earth was at the center of the Universe, but all of that changed in the 17th century. Astronomers like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, and Isaac Newton proposed the unthinkable theory that Earth and the other planets actually revolved around the Sun. 

Signs and Seasons Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

Gorgeous. Worth every penny! Signs & Seasons is an introduction to “Classical Astronomy,” the traditional, historical approach to the sky, as had been practiced from ancient times. The biblical basis for astronomy

The Mysteries of the Universe: Discover the best-kept secrets

Space is so much bigger than young minds can fathom and there is always more to learn. The Mysteries of the Universe is a stunning space encyclopedia for young readers to explore, with reference pages packed with fascinating information, little learners will be captivated as they journey through the vastness of the Universe. 

Basher Science: Astronomy: Out of this World!

Like a Facebook for the universe, Astronomy gives every important celestial body and concept its own page, where readers can learn its behaviors, likes, and dislikes up close and personal. From the flashy stars to the shadowy and strange objects that hang out like loners at the edges of the universe, no player goes unnoticed. 

Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky, The

The Stargazers Guide to the Night Sky offers everything you need to explore the remarkable beauty of the stars, moon, and planets. Dr. Jason Lisle, a research scientist with a masters and Ph.D. in astrophysics provides a very thorough, practical and easy to read resource to fuel the curiosity of amateur astronomers ages 10 to 100.

Solar System Puzzle Wooden Space Toys for Kids

【Planet Toys for Kids】Our wooden solar system puzzle is the PERFECT CHOICE for you and your kids as it is made from natural wood, vivid planet patten with well designed. This preschool learning activities is suitable for 3+ years kids and represents the perfect activity to learn through play!

Solar System Planetarium - DIY Glow In The Dark Astronomy Planet Model

The Solar System Planetarium set teaches children about the wonders of the solar system. Just assemble, paint and learn.

This set includes planets, stencils, squeeze glow paint pen, rods, string, a fact filled wall chart and 10 sets of Kidz Quiz questions.

Next, look at a few other hands on solar system and space activities.

MORE SOLAR SYSTEM ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids
  • How To Make Puffy Paint Planets And Free Notebooking Pages
  • Geronimo Stilton Mouse into Space:How to Make an EASY Straw Rocket
  • Geronimo Stilton Theme Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Then, look at these quick facts about our solar system.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT OUR SOLAR SYSTEM FOR KIDS

Sun – The Sun is a large ball of hot, burning gases, mostly made up of hydrogen and helium. It is the center of our universe.

Mercury – Mercury is the hottest and coldest planet. It is the planet closest to the Sun but can’t trap heat. So during the day it’s super hot and at night it’s freezing cold. It’s also the smallest planet.

Venus – It is similar to earth in size and shape and sometimes called Earth’s twin. It has no moons and rotates backwards.

Earth – The only planet known to have life. It has the perfect balance of air, temperature, and water to sustain. It’s also called the Blue because a large amount of water covers the earth.

FACTS ABOUT THE 8 PLANETS

Mars – Mars is known as the Red Planet because its surface is covered in rusty red colored rocks. Also, Mars has the largest volcano in the solar system. It is the Olympus Mons which three times as high as

Jupiter – Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. It has many moons – at least 79. It does not have a solid surface like Earth but is gas giant.

Saturn – Saturn is the second largest planet and it is famous for its amazing rings. The rings are made of rock, dust and ice. It too is a gas giant and does not have a solid surface like Earth.

Uranus – Uranus is a giant ice and one cool fact is that it spins on its side unlike the other planets which spin upright.

Neptune – Neptune is the farthest planet from the sun and it is has the fastest winds in the Solar System. It has at least 14 moons.

Moon – Our moon is Earth’s only moon and it is the only natural satellite of Earth. It goes through phases from new to full moon as it orbits earth.

Galaxy – Galaxies can take many shapes. For example, there are spirals and elliptical. Our Solar System is part of the Milky Way Galaxy. And a galaxy is basically a group or cluster of stars, gas and matter that are held together by gravity.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Stars – A star is a giant ball of hot, glowing gases. Our Sun is a star and it is the center of our universe and they come in many different colors.

Finally, look at how to make these mini solar system activity sensory bottles.

MINI SOLAR SYSTEM ACTIVITY SENSORY BOTTLES

Here is a list of supplies:

  • (12) 80ml (2.7 oz / ⅓ C) plastic bottle with tight-fitting lids
  • Water
  • Clear school glue
  • Small funnel (optional)
  • Glitter *see list below (I know, I know, but it really makes a difference here.)
  • Alphabet stickers
How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Apply stickers to each bottle spelling out:

Sun, Moon, Galaxy, Stars, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Add water to each bottle, filling them about ¾ of the way.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Fill each bottle to the neck with clear glue, leaving room for the glitter.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Add glitter to each mini sensory bottle until all 12 colors are complete.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Close the top tightly.

Shake and enjoy.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Also, look at this list of colors we went with for the glitter.

  • Sun: yellow
  • Moon: light and dark gray
  • Galaxy: black, purple, and gray
  • Stars: gray and star confetti
  • Mercury: silver
  • Venus: red and orange
  • Earth: blue and green
  • Mars: red
  • Jupiter: brown and gold
  • Saturn: yellow and gold
  • Uranus: light blue and silver
  • Neptune: dark blue and light blue

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronomy, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, planets, science

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