Earth and other planets

Space is a common interest topic in early childhood education, which includes different planets. Some children are specifically interested in our planet, Earth.

The planets in our solar system are Earth, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus. We also have dwarf planets: Ceres, Eris, Haumea, Makemake and Pluto.

EYLF learning outcomes

This topic connects with the Early Years Learning Framework. An interest in space and planets involves inquiry, researching and investigating (4.2). When children learn about Earth, they learn respect for their environment (2.4).

Learning experiences

View earth from space

NASA'S Visible Earth is a collection of pictures of Earth, taken from space. See thousands of astounding images, including Earth at night, fires, snow and ice, volcanos, forests, dust storms and pollution.

Earth can also be explored from a distance using the Google Earth app.

Mould a playdough solar system

Provide children with pictures of the solar system, including close-up views of the planets. Children observe the visual characteristics of each planet and attempt to make them out of play dough.

Provide tools and playdough in a variety of colours so children have everything they need. Older children may attempt to make all the planets and arrange them in the correct order. Younger children may make one or two planets.

Make your own globe

Globes are wonderful additions to early learning classrooms. But if you don't have one, your children can easily make one from a blown-up balloon. Look at pictures of the Earth on the internet and draw the continents onto the balloon.

Hang or hold the balloon and point a torch or lamp towards one side of it, simulating day and night. When it is daytime in Australia, where is it night?

Discuss the differences between day and night. What happens in our world when it is light and dark? How does the world feel during these times?

Combine oil pastels with watercolours

Children can research planets to learn about their different aesthetic features, including colours and textures. Encourage them to draw a planet in our solar system or invent their own planet.

Provide colourful oil pastels for bold lines and rough textures, and watercolour paints for subtle shades and smooth surfaces. Children may wish to cut their planet out and glue it on a black background.

Learn how to protect Earth

Introduce children to the concept of sustainability and climate change. Discuss the reasons why people need to protect Earth. Explain that we can all do little things every day to help our planet stay happy and healthy.

Test gravity

Roll a ball down a ramp, tip water from a jug, jump towards the sky, and throw a ball. Do all of these things fall back to Earth? What is pulling them there?