by Dawn Young

Created on: September 16, 2010

There is nothing more magical than gazing upon the clear night sky.  Its mysteries captivate imagination and spark creativity in children the minute they first gaze upon it.  Children are easily intrigued by the wonder of the stars and the phases of the moon, so you will discover you have a willing audience to teach to. The basics in regards to the night sky can be taught by tapping into your creative side and incorporating the use of simple tools to achieve it.  Not only will you be educating your children, but you will also enjoy quality time learning together.

Sources-

First you need to take a trip to your local book store or library to find books that teach about the universe (stars, moon, planets etc) and are appropriate for the age group you are targeting.  If those options are out of the way for you than let the internet be your source for either gathering information or ordering the books you need.  Kids love bedtime stories that teach about the universe so reading to them at bedtime is a great introduction to the night sky.

Twinkle, Twinkle…-

Stars twinkling like diamonds in the night sky are so beautiful that it doesn’t take much to draw in star gazers of any age.  Sitting outside on a clear dark night within the city, limits the amount of stars you may see but you will still be able to identify many stars and constellations.  If you live in the country then you are lucky and will see a full blanket of stars because you won’t have the city lights dimming your view. 

Teaching your children about stars and their constellations can be fun for every one.  Take a trip to the craft store and purchase art paper that glows in the dark or already manufactured glow in the dark stars and planets.  Then based on the constellation patterns you have found on the internet or in books arrange the stars on the ceiling or walls of your child’s room accordingly.  Then turn out the light and use a small flashlight to trace constellation patterns in the dark.  This is an easy way to introduce your children to the constellations and an easy way for you to practice until you have a clear sky to star gaze.

Quality Time-

Once your children have mastered the constellations within the walls of your home it is time to venture outside.  Make a family night of it.  Prepare some snacks or popcorn and hot chocolate and set up blankets in your back yard. If you live in an apartment or condo,

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