Outer Space Preschool Theme: Circle Time and Activities

Outer space is captivating to adults and children alike. Many people have dreamed of donning an astronaut suit and exploring the mysteries of space. When a shuttle or rocket launches, rising to explore an endless universe of possibilities, the excitement is hard to contain. That’s why an outer space preschool theme is a real blast!

Incorporating outer space activities into the preschool classroom is a great way to inspire future space explorers. It is a fantastic stepping stone into STEAM activities, encourages creative thinking, and appeals to every preschooler’s sense of wonder.

Blast off into Outer Space at Circle Time

Preschoolers are naturally curious, so incorporating an outer space preschool theme into circle time lessons is a great way to teach about planets, stars, and astronauts. It is also a great time to introduce new ideas and show colorful pictures and hands-on props to the students. 

Some topics to include during circle time:

• Phases of the moon – look at real-life pictures, discuss new vocabulary, investigate how sunlight affects how we see the moon.
• Sun and Stars – discuss characteristics of stars, look at pictures and compare the size of stars based on how close they are to Earth.
• Planets – sing songs to learn the names of the planets in our solar system, examine size and order from the sun, introduce new vocabulary like rotate and revolve.
• Astronauts – explore gear needed to go into outer space, take on pretend roles by becoming an astronaut, practice counting with poems and stories.
• Telescopes – provide hands-on inquiry into tools used to study space, create paper towel telescopes for pretend play.

Independent Explorations in Learning

Giving children time to discover things on their own can foster creativity and independence. When studying outer space, these types of investigations are an invitation to play and learn. Students can:

• Study patterns and shapes using outer space themed-games. When partnered into a theme, independent play can seamlessly incorporate math and literacy.
• Challenge students to use their engineering skills to construct a space shuttle with blocks, or even translucent building blocks at the light table.
• Build a space station in the block area and use an “Under Construction” sign to keep the fun going throughout the week.

Paint a Bright Future

Process art activities provide sensory input, a sense of achievement and are out-of-this-world fun! Read more here about how to create beautiful Sunshine Process Art.

Every student’s art project shines bright with this Neon Glowing Art Project! It is a great way to introduce technology into the art center.

Outer Space Sensory Sensations

Sensory centers are essential to early childhood classrooms. Not only do they help students self-regulate, they encourage discussion and interaction between students and build both language and math skills. Sensory bins are also an engaging center that can entice even the most reluctant student.

This black beans sensory bin makes a stunning addition to the classroom! Sensory bins are a favorite center for many students, which means teachers are always searching for new ideas. Finding cost-efficient fillers for this center is easy when you think outside the box (or inside a bag). Adding rockets and brightly colored star-shaped beads creates a fun color sorting activity. (These are Learning Resources Rhyme & Sort Rockets.)

Playing with Pluffle at the sensory table is a fun, tactile activity for kids of all ages. Preschoolers love it but need supervision as with all sensory table materials. Trays or bins contain the fluffy foam bits. However, it spreads easily but sweeps or wipes up just as easily.

Taking On New Roles

Studies show the benefits that play has on learning. Children gain first-hand experience with problem-solving, social interactions and challenges, math and literary skills, and more. An Outer Space dramatic play center is a great way to incorporate play into a lesson when paired with the theme. From flying a spaceship to operating the mission control center, students gain first-hand experience and deepen their understanding of the theme.

Having the students immerse themselves in the outer space preschool theme activities will give them an experience they will not likely forget.

More Information about Outer Space for Young Learners

• National Geographic’s Passport to Space
• NASA Science – Space Place
• NASA Kids’ Club