The sky gives children a sense of wonder about the unknown and shows them something much bigger than themselves. Children can appreciate the sky by standing outside and looking up. The view is mesmorising!
Toddlers may identify the shapes of stars and moons, and point to them in the sky. Preschool children may be ready for project work about the universe.
EYLF learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework asks children to become socially responsible and show respect for the environment (2.4), and this includes the entire universe!
To research and investigate space (4.2), preschool children will most likely use technologies like telescopes and the internet (4.4). Space inspires curiosity, imagination, and creative thinking (4.1).
Learning experiences
Investigate
Space is a popular project in early childhood education. The possibilities are as expansive as space itself and children can take the learning in unexpected directions.
Explore these topics: air, aliens, earth and other planets, spacecraft, stars, the moon, the sun, birds and weather.
Observe the sky
Observe and discuss the sky at different times of the day, noting changes in colour, cloud cover, and weather. Take photos of interesting observations and record data on a chart.
Play sky bingo
Educators create a checklist with pictures of things that people might see in the sky (e.g. planes, the sun, a kite). Children observe the sky and mark off an item when they see it.
Make a sky-themed sensory bottle
Place loose parts and water tinted with blue food dye inside an empty soft drink bottle. Use various shades of blue and white materials such as beads or sequins. Place the lid on and shake.
Use a telescope or binoculars
Try to locate a set of binoculars or a telescope so children can use authentic tools to observe the sky. Children will learn the purpose of this equipment when they can see distant objects up close.
If you cannot obtain access, help children make pretend ones from rolled-up pieces of paper or cardboard tubes.
Research artists
The sky is a popular theme for artists. View various artworks that feature the sky or space, reflect on their materials and techniques, and use them as inspiration for your own artworks.
- Andrés Galeano made the artwork Sky Studies from a collage of photos.
- SUNSET FS II.85-88 by Andy Warhol is a screenprint on paper.
- Romero Britto created My Starry Night using acrylic paint and pen.
- Timothy Akimanzi created The Eye of the Universe using ink.
Events
- 30th June is International Asteroid Day
- World Space Week is in October
Resources
Organisations
Websites
- ABC: Beginners guide to the night sky
- Curious Kids: Can people live in space?
- CELA: Fun ways to take preschoolers into space
- CELA: How satellites improve life