3 Cool Space Activities for Kids That Are Out of This World

Every child becomes interested in the space at some point in their development. Being an astronaut is one of the top five dream jobs, according to a poll given to kids between the ages of eight and twelve. I mean, who doesn’t want to be an astronaut, launching in a rocket into an out-of-this-world experience? And then some kids are completely blown out by the beauty of our universe, becoming obsessed with stars and planets, and the flying crafts that can take them up there.

What Do Kids Love About Space?

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Children are naturally curious to study space since it’s an intriguing subject that sparks their imaginations about mystery and adventure. Many of these kids will aspire to be scientists, engineers, or science educators, even though most won’t become astronauts.

If your kid shows great interest in space, early exposure to space-inspired activities can help them learn more and better, and to pursue jobs in science and technology. Activities such as making a solar system model or building realistic and engaging rocket kits can also help you spend time together and bond, as children love it when we validate their wishes and interests, making them feel seen and important. And, who knows – maybe they’ll become the next rocket scientist this world needs?

3 Cool Space Activities to Try

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Building a Rocket Using a Model Kit

You may have already engaged in interesting hobbies with your kids like racing RC vehicles or building model cars, but model rockets are another level of thrill and fun. What’s so exciting about rocket kits is when it’s finally time for the launching countdown after hours of careful engineering.

When you’re done with your model rocket, it appears almost extraterrestrial! And rockets offer a more engaging experience than some of their model-building counterparts, which sets them apart. What makes this activity shine is waiting for that special moment of liftoff, which enables it to go much beyond simply making that model and putting it on display.

When choosing your first model rocket kit, you’ll notice different options in Australia from reputable brands such as Estes Rockets, an industry leader for over 60 years with over 500 million launches. Here’s what you need to know to choose the correct kit for your child and you:

• Skill level. Most brands, including Estes, classify their rocket into various skill levels, from beginner-grade to master. Choosing a rocket hip that matches your skill level is essential for preventing frustration and ensuring a successful launch.
• Size. Beginner-friendly options often include small, easy-to-handle rockets that are compact and lightweight. Classic rocket designs with eye-catching aesthetics that are also fun are available in beginner sizes. Larger options with a pre-assembled recovery system are perfect for beginners wanting to approach the hobby with a more complex and sophisticated rocket.
• Recovery system. There are three basic recovery mechanisms to consider when choosing your first rocket: glide, streamer, and parachute. Though it has limitations in terms of altitude, parachute recovery is the most straightforward and cost-effective solution. Consider height and your level of rocket building and design expertise while selecting a recovery mechanism.
• Design. Many brands like Estes have a large selection of designs, such as conventional rockets, spaceships, and models with science fiction influences. Select a design that suits your hobbies and makes you feel good.

Making a Solar System Model

Our planetary system that revolves around the sun, located at the centre of our galaxy the Milky Way, is the best place to start when introducing space to your child. It’s the subject we have the most information on, making outer space real and relevant.

Creating a solar system model is a fun and educational activity perfect for young space enthusiasts. This project introduces kids to the basics of our solar system, comprised of eight planets orbiting the sun: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Building a scale model helps kids visualise the planets’ relative sizes and positions, enhances understanding of the solar system, and encourages creativity and hands-on learning.

Space and Rocket-inspired Crafts

If your little astronaut loves arts and crafts, you’ll be happy to learn many space- and rocket-inspired craft project ideas are available online, from moon rocks and alien space crafts to edible moon phases made from Oreos. Here are some of our favourites:

• Using Science Bob’s Oreo phases of the moon as a guide, you can taste your way through the lunar phases. How many cookies do you want until you’re full?
• As seen on No Time for Flashcards, create a glow-in-the-dark puffy paint moon using paper plates. Shaving cream and glow-in-the-dark glue are the ingredients of the paint.
• Make the textured moon that I Heart Crafty Things has to offer. Combine this with examining images of the lunar surface.
• Using three dinosaurs, decorate a wreath with a space motif. This project would be simple with stickers with a space theme.
• As seen on Growing a Jewelled Rose, experiment with galaxy dough. It’s not necessary to cook. It’s also reusable if kept in an airtight container for repeated use!
• Hands-On As We Grow has shown how to build a DIY telescope to observe the sky. An excellent approach to upcycling a plastic bottle is this.
• Try out our balloon-powered rocket ship! Actual rockets have a speed of over 17,500 mph. Get outdoors and check the range and velocity of your balloon rocket.
• As seen on Our Kid Things, create a cardboard roll space rocket ship craft. Use stickers, paint, or paper to decorate.