{"id":634,"date":"2016-11-20T11:09:14","date_gmt":"2016-11-20T17:09:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.learningtostem.com\/?p=634"},"modified":"2017-02-11T20:24:56","modified_gmt":"2017-02-12T02:24:56","slug":"child-stargazers-12-astronomy-gifts-for-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.learningtostem.com\/child-stargazers-12-astronomy-gifts-for-kids\/","title":{"rendered":"12 Astronomy Gifts for Kids that Will Encourage Their Stargazing"},"content":{"rendered":"

Many kids do not need much encouragement to instill a sense of wonder\u00a0when looking at the heavens. Some children, though, fall a bit more in love with the stars than others. For those children (and their parents!), we have curated a list of 12 of our favorite astronomy gifts for kids.<\/p>\n

Our astronomy selections include space shuttles in metal, cardboard, Lego, and hanging canopy form. And, it includes astronauts in various play styles.<\/p>\n

PLAYMOBIL Space Rocket with Launch Site Building Kit<\/a><\/h3>\n

PLAYMOBIL has added a space-themed set to their building kit line. For better or worse, this kit includes over 100 different pieces for your child to enjoy (or lose!). You can check the instruction booklet for a detailed look<\/a> at the building requirements and assorted pieces.\u00a0\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

Melissa and Doug Solar System Floor Puzzle (48 pieces, 2 x 3 feet)<\/a><\/h3>\n

Melissa and Doug does not disappoint with this 6 square foot\u00a0space-themed puzzle. It features extra thick, durable pieces and an easy-to-clean surface that makes parents happy.<\/p>\n

The puzzle features our solar system (planets, sun, and moon) and includes names to help children learn while\u00a0solving the puzzle.<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/h3>\n

Lego City Space Port Utility Shuttle Building Kit<\/a><\/h3>\n

This is a rather simple equation: Lego + Space Shuttle = great astronomy gift for kids.<\/p>\n

This set includes 155 pieces, including 2 astronaut minifigures. The finished project measures 7 inches (long) x 7 inches (long)\u00a0x 2 inches (tall).<\/p>\n

155 pieces are enough to keep children entertained building the model without being too challenging. Then, they can enjoy interacting with what they have built.<\/p>\n

However, this Lego model is not as durable as the Playmobil toy mentioned earlier. If you child likes to take her\/his toys on the road, you may want to opt for durability over Lego-goodness<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a>Cardboard Astro Rocket<\/a><\/h3>\n

This cardboard modeling kit allows kids to convert precision-cut, corrugated cardboard into a rocketship. Some of the fun is in the building, and some of the fun is in running around the house pretending to fly a spaceship.\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

Space Explorer Iron On Patch<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Astronaut<\/a>With this 3.25″ x 2.625″ patch you can\u00a0instantly add space flair to your child’s backpack or clothing. It requires nothing more than a few minutes of ironing.<\/p>\n

If you prefer a smaller version, but at the same price, you can get the mini version<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0Astronaut Mini Night Light<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/h3>\n

In our house Batman guards against the monsters in the night. But for future space travelers, this astronaut night light is much more preferable. By using an LED instead of a traditional bulb, this night light is not only fun but also environmentally friendly.<\/p>\n

The Magic School Bus: Secret of Space<\/a><\/h3>\n

This space-themed Magic School Bus set offers several interactive activities: building a night-time flashing, building a constellation box, drawing constellation cards, and designing a solar system.<\/p>\n

Previous customers indicate that this astronomy kit is great for younger kids (up to around 8 years old) and great for an activity. However, do not expect to get lots of repeat value from this set.<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

4M Solar System Planetarium<\/a><\/h3>\n

4M’s\u00a0Solar System Planetarium is an assembly kit that teaches kids about the solar system. Using the parts included in the set, children can construct and paint their very own solar system.<\/p>\n

Most of the fun with this kit is in the creation and painting. It offers kids the chance to explore their creative side while learning about planets.\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

The downside of this astronomy kit is that it is just that: a kit. This is absolutely not\u00a0<\/strong>at toy. The parts are too small and fragile to be played with. Instead, it is great for learning and using as a mobile hanging from the ceiling.<\/p>\n

Great Explorations 3-D Solar System<\/a><\/h3>\n

The 3-D Solar System set from Great Explorations is the perfect astronomy toy for your stargazing child who will be able to use the over 200 glow-in-the-dark\u00a0stars and planets to decorate their\u00a0ceiling and walls.<\/p>\n

Many other options exist for decorating your child’s ceiling and walls with glow-in-the-dark elements. But, this is one of the better reviewed sets on Amazon. That said, many users have voiced two concerns that you should be aware of: the stars are fairly small so you may consider purchasing larger stars to accompany this set and the planets can be a bit troublesome to install.<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

Toysmith Galaxy Kinetic Astronomy Kit<\/a><\/h3>\n

This astronomy kit is a fun desktop distraction that you can use to teach your kids about planetary rotation. As a toy, though, it can quickly lose its intrigue after some of the initial fun.<\/p>\n

However, it can be a great addition to your kid’s desk or shelf and something they can enjoy spinning when the mood strikes.<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

To the Moon Playhouse Canopy<\/a><\/h3>\n

Land of Nod’s rocket-shaped playhouse canopy lets kids\u00a0jump aboard their very own spaceship. It’s great for a space-themed play area. Adjustable mechanisms allow the spaceship to hang from ceilings 8-9 feet tall.<\/p>\n

\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

Rocket Adventure Fleet Playset<\/a><\/h3>\n

The Rocket Adventure \u00a0Fleet Playset contains 5 pieces made from a mix of diecast metal and plastic. The rocket is approximately 5 inches tall and the remaining pieces are 2-4 inches.\u00a0\"Astronomy<\/a><\/p>\n

If you didn’t find anything here for your little astronaut, you may try looking at some of our favorite space-themed children’s books<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Many kids do not need much encouragement to instill a sense of wonder\u00a0when looking at the heavens. Some children, though, fall a bit more in love with the stars than others. For those children (and their parents!), we have curated a list of 12 of our favorite astronomy gifts for kids. Our astronomy selections include […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":658,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"wppr_data":{"cwp_meta_box_check":"No"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n12 Astronomy Gifts for Kids that Will Encourage Their Stargazing<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"We have curated 12 of our favorite astronomy gifts for kids to help your child explore their interest in space and the world beyond.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, 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