Activities

Description

Participants and their caregivers will create handprint aliens by either tracing their hands or using pre-cut templates.

The activity worksheet can be used for passive programming.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants and their caregivers can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Development of fine motor skills
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Spatial relationships

Materials

• Alien Friends Template
• Cardstock or printer paper
• Googly eyes of varying sizes
• Stickers (optional)
• Pencils, pencil crayons, markers or crayons
• Large glue sticks
• Scissors (safety or adult use only)

Preparation

• Print out Alien Friends Template, preferably on cardstock.
• Pre-cut hands (optional).
• Pre-cut shapes of different colours and textures.
• Create a few alien friends as examples.
• Project examples on a screen (optional).

Implementation

1.   Distribute templates or blank sheets of cardstock for participants who want to trace their own hands.

2.   Distribute scissors to those who are cutting out their own templates or their own hands.

3.   Distribute craft materials.

Accessibility Considerations

• Consider using items that already have adhesive (e.g., stickers).
• Use large glue sticks or a bowl with glue and craft sticks.
• Provide various drawing tools.
• Make sure items are large enough to be easily picked up and added to the alien friends.

Book Suggestions

Hush, Little Rocket by Mo O’Hara and Alexandra Cook

One Giant Leap by Thao Lam

When Sunlight Tiptoes by Gillian Sze and Soyeon Kim

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Alien Friends Template (8.5" x 11") PDF

Images

Description

A PowerPoint trivia game where kids will guess letters to reveal the answers to space trivia. Kids must guess the answer before an alien appears on the screen.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space equipped with a laptop, computer mouse and projector

Competencies

• Oral communication skills
• Social interaction
• Vocabulary building

Materials

• Laptop
• Computer mouse
• Projector
• Scrap paper and pencils (optional)

Preparation

• Test the PowerPoint game before trialling it for your group.
  o   Advance the slides by clicking on the arrow labelled “next” in the bottom right of each slide or by using the right arrow key.
  o   Click on the letters in the circles for each letter guess. If the guess is correct, that letter will appear in a blue box at the top of the slide. If that letter appears multiple times throughout the word, you will not need to reclick the letter; it will appear in multiple blue boxes. If the guess is incorrect, an alien “part” will appear on the screen. It may be something very small, such as a circle or stick shape. Clicking that same letter again will not do anything additional. As mentioned below, the PowerPoint game does not track which letters have already been guessed, so you can have one or more kids volunteer to track on a scrap piece of paper.
  o   Kids will be tasked with guessing the word before the full alien appears on the screen. We suggest having to guess three correct letters before allowing kids to guess the word, but those rules can be changed. Simply edit the PowerPoint text on the second slide or inform your group.
• In the notes section, there is a section called “unused letters.” If kids guess the answer before the full alien image has appeared on the screen, but still want to see the alien, simply click on each letter in the notes section until the full alien is on the screen. Clicking a letter more than once will not produce an additional effect.
• Once the word is guessed, you can show the alien by clicking the unused letters as described above. To play again, simply advance to the next slide using the arrow labelled “next” in the bottom right corner of the slide.

Implementation

1.   Tell kids that they will be answering some fun space trivia. Set the rules for them, such as whether they will raise their hand to answer, how many correct letters must be guessed before they can guess the word, etc.

2.   Elect a volunteer in the group to be a letter tracker—someone to note down what letters have been guessed. This task can be assigned to the entire group if you prefer. All participants may benefit from having a scrap paper and pencil in front of them for tracking and guessing.

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide a PDF of the trivia questions for anyone who may have difficulty seeing on screens.
• Kids can work together in small teams or pairs to call out suggested letters, then record them on the worksheet provided.
• Staff will narrate the position of the letters when they are guessed correctly, for example, “B is our first letter.”
• Staff will read or narrate all the information on the slides.
• Staff can use a microphone if available.

Book Suggestions

Super Space Weekend: Adventures in Astronomy by Gaëlle Alméras and David Warriner

Where Are the Aliens?: The Search for Life Beyond Earth by Stacy McAnulty and Nicole Miles

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Aliens Have Landed! Trivia.PPTX

Trivia Questions PDF

Images

Description

Kids and caregivers will learn to count down in the Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe) language. A rocket craft with clothespins supports the activity.

Number of Participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Eye-hand coordination
• Letter recognition
• Memory
• Oral communication skills
• Social interaction

Materials

• Clothespins
• Markers or crayons for colouring
• Black sharpies that adults can share for labelling
• Cardstock for rocket template
• Printouts of the rhyme sheet
• Strips of cardboard or additional cardstock to be used as rocket bases
• Scissors
• Glue

Preparation

• Set out the necessary craft supplies to make the clothespin rocket
• Print out the rocket template and cut the cardboard/cardstock rocket bases to the correct size
• Have a sample rocket on display that you can use to model the countdown
• Print copies of the rhyme sheet for participants and practice your pronunciation of the Anishinaabemowin numbers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDTArrDXQHs
  Note: We invite you to modify this activity to reflect the traditional language of the region that you are in.

Implementation

1. Instruct caregivers to cut out the rocket. Otherwise, the child can cut it out. Together, they will glue it on the cardboard/cardstock base. Kids will decorate the clothespins to be rocket flames and caregivers will number the clothespins from 1 to 5.

2. Once the children have decorated their rockets as below, instruct your group in the pronunciation of the Anishinaabemowin words.

3. Run through the blastoff rhyme a few times for practice and fun. To begin, have all clothespins off the rocket. Allow kids to clip on the number as it is being said (5: naanan, 4: niiwin, etc.).

4. Invite participants from the group to share if they can count down from 5 to 1 in another language.

Accessibility Considerations

• Use a microphone if available
• Indigenous pronunciations could be played on a speaker if available
• Provide multiple options for materials to colour in the rockets and clothespins

Book Suggestions

Hush, Little Rocket by Mo O’Hara and Alexandra Cook

Oolichan Moon by Samantha Beynon and Lucy Trimble

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Anishinaabemowin Blastoff - rhyme sheet PDF

Rocket Template PDF

Images

Description

Invite kids to an astronaut training camp. Participants will flex their agility in a game of galaxy hopscotch, learn astronaut hand signals for communication, perform a moon rock exploration and complete a My Own Planet Handout.

The handout can be used for passive programming.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor or outdoor space with room for children to move through four different stations

Competencies

• Body awareness
• Classification skills
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions

Materials

Galaxy Hopscotch

• Masking tape for indoors or sidewalk chalk for outdoors
• Paper for labelling space words
• Beanbags or stones

Astronaut Hand Signals

• Laptop or device, if screening YouTube video or showing pictures

Moon Rock Exploration

• Moon rock bases: blocks, tennis balls, crumpled scrap paper
• Foil paper
• Rubber gloves
• Tongs
• Foam sticker shapes if desired
• Optional: boxes to divide the moon rocks
• Moon Rock Observation Template

My Own Planet Handout

• Printer paper
• Writing utensils

Preparation

• Prepare the Galaxy Hopscotch using sidewalk chalk if outdoors or tape if inside. Once your seven galaxy words are chosen, you can write them in chalk or print them out. In this second instance, be sure to tape them to the floor to prevent children from slipping.

• You can print out the images provided for the Astronaut Hand Signals or set up a laptop or screen to show the NASA STEM YouTube video.
• Wrap the chosen bases (blocks, balled-up paper, stones or another material) in foil paper to create the “moon rocks” for Moon Rock Exploration. You can add foam sticker shapes or letters to the moon rocks for sorting.

o   On either a table or in boxes, set out the rubber gloves, tongs, writing utensils and Moon Rock Observation Templates or scrap paper.

o   Search “Astronaut Glove Box Activity” online if you would like to make a fully enclosed environment for kids to study the moon rocks. Note: this setup will allow for a much more limited number of kids to be participating in the activity at one time.

• Print the My Own Planet Handouts and set them out with writing utensils.

Implementation

Galaxy Hopscotch

1. Throw a "moon rock" (small stone, twig, beanbag, etc.), trying to land it in the first rectangle. The object must land inside the rectangle without touching the border or bouncing out. If it lands on a line or outside the rectangle, you lose your turn; pass the moon rock to the following player and wait for your next turn to try again.

2. If the object successfully lands in the first rectangle, hop on one foot into the first empty rectangle and then every subsequent empty rectangle in order. Skip the one your marker is in.

3.   At the pairs (two rectangles), land on both feet—one foot in each rectangle.

4.   At the semicircle, land with both feet, turn around and hop back to the start.

5.   When you reach your marked rectangle again, pick up the moon rock (still balancing on one foot), read or spell the word in the rectangle and then complete the course.

6.   On your next turn, throw the moon rock to the next rectangle in order and try to go through the entire course again.

7.   If you fall, jump outside the lines or miss a rectangle or the moon rock, you lose your turn and must repeat the same rectangle on your next turn. The goal is to complete the whole course, having read or spelled all the words.

Astronaut Hand Signals

Astronauts have radios to communicate, but there are times that they may rely on nonverbal communication—for example, during a spacewalk.

NOTE: These hand signals were derived from a video provided by NASA STEM, “How do astronauts communicate nonverbally in space?” The signals apply solely to the context of nonverbal communication between astronauts. We cannot confirm their meaning in any other setting.

1.   Teach your little astronauts the hand signals below.

2.   Have kids come up with potential space scenarios to use the signals and have them practice in pairs or small groups.

a.   HOLD: raised fist. A scenario for “hold” may include a rescue mission where one of the astronauts is still tethered to something, so they ask to pause or hold.

b.   OK: join thumb and pointer finger in a circle, with the other three fingers raised. This symbol can be used as a question or an answer. Have one child point to their partner and make the “OK” symbol, showing the sign being used as the question, “are you OK?” Then their partner can respond using the “OK” signal to signify that they are all right to continue.

c.   NUMBERS. Your young astronauts will practice signifying the numbers one through ten using only one hand. Real-life scenarios for space crew may include indicating suit pressure, water pressure or temperature without the astronaut removing their other hand from a piece of equipment.

6-10

d.   I CAN’T HEAR: kids can point to their chest to indicate “me,” then wave across their ear to indicate that they can’t hear, as shown below. An astronaut might use this signal if their radio device is cutting out.

3.   WRAP IT UP: kids will point and make a spiral motion with their finger to indicate that the crew needs to finish up what they are doing. The signal could refer to wrapping up a spacewalk and getting back to the ship or wrapping up before a problem gets worse.

Moon Rock Exploration

1.   Explain to participants that they will be wearing protective hand coverings (gloves) and using special tools (tongs) to examine moon rocks.

2.   Remind everyone that these are precious lunar specimens and not to be touched with bare hands.

3.   Encourage kids to assign a tracking number to each moon rock, then record the approximate size and any relevant observations on their template or a scrap piece of paper.

My Own Planet Handout

1.   Explain both sides of the handout to participants and allow time for them to share their creations with the group if desired.

Accessibility Considerations

Galaxy Hopscotch

• Increase the size of the hopscotch game to accommodate mobility devices.
  o   Staff/other participants can assist a participant with a disability by picking up the moon rock for them.
  o   Instead of throwing a moon rock onto the hopscotch layout, a participant can pull spoons labelled with the words from a can.
• Read aloud the name of the rectangle if pulling spoons.
• Remove lose-a-turn rules.

Astronaut Hand Signals

• If showing the video, project it on a large screen if possible and ensure that the audio is loud enough.
• Verbally describe all the hand signals being used.
• Allow kids to practice making the hand signals in small pairs or groups.

Moon Rock Exploration

• Encourage kids to explore the moon rocks in whatever way is most comfortable for them. Wearing the mock astronaut gloves or using the tweezers/tongs is optional.
• Kids can work in pairs or small groups if preferred.
• Offer kids a blank page instead of the template for recording their observations.
• Have several different writing utensils available and allow kids to choose what works for them.
• Post the instructions for this activity using large font if possible, but allow flexibility for how kids interact with the setup.

My Own Planet Handout

• Provide various types of writing tools.
• Provide various types of drawing tools, including tactile ones.
• Project the questions on a screen and read them out loud.
• Participants can work in pairs.

Book Suggestions

Amazing Night Sky Atlas: The Ultimate Stargazing Guide by Nancy Dickmann

The Me I Choose To Be by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley and Regis and Kahran Bethencourt

The Only Astronaut by Mahak Jain and Andrea Stegmaier

Rover and Speck #1: This Planet Rocks! by Jonathan Roth

Super Space Weekend: Adventures in Astronomy by Gaëlle Alméras and David Warriner

The Universe in You: A Microscopic Journey by Jason Chin

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

My Own Planet.docx

Moon Rock Observation Template.docx

Description

Celebrate the northern skies. Participants will use a chalk pastel technique to create an art piece inspired by aurora borealis.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Artistic expression
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions

Materials

• Dark blue cardstock for base
• Scrap paper to tear
• Chalk pastels or coloured chalk in various colours: pink, orange, blue, green, yellow, etc.
• White chalk pastel or chalk
• Scissors
• Glue
• Black construction paper for horizon details
• Paper towel
• White paint
• Paintbrushes
• BBQ skewers for adding larger stars (optional)

Preparation

• Prepare the room with stations for each participant and decide if there are any materials they will need to share
• Consider showing images of aurora borealis in a book or a PowerPoint presentation

Implementation

1.   Instruct participants to choose a horizon for the art piece and mark it with a white piece of chalk.

2. Then, participants will tear a piece of scrap paper in a similar way to the image below.

3. After laying the scrap piece of paper down on their background anywhere above the horizon line, participants will select two or three different coloured pieces of chalk and outline the raw edge of the scrap paper with their colours.

4. Then, participants will use their fingertips or a dry paper towel to smudge the chalk upward onto the paper to achieve the effect shown below.

5. Participants can then reuse the same piece of scrap paper by tearing a new rough edge. They can repeat the previous steps of chalking and smudging the chalk lines upward.

6. If the scrap paper is thick enough, participants can continue to reuse it by tearing a new edge. Otherwise, they can use a fresh scrap piece of paper to redo the steps above and add to their northern lights.

7. Allow participants to continue with the chalk pastels until their sky seems finished, but remind them not to smudge any northern lights beneath the horizon line.

8. Then, participants will use the black construction paper and a pair of scissors to cut out tree and mountain details that will lie along the horizon. They can sketch out the shapes with pencil first or do a free-handed cut. Once this paper addition is completed, participants will glue it along the horizon line.

9. Now participants can address the space beneath the horizon by creating a reflection of the northern lights in the “water” below. Using the same colours as their northern lights, they will draw short lines beneath the horizon to be smudged horizontally this time, not vertically.

10. After the northern lights reflection is smudged, white chalk can be used to define any trees or snow-capped mountain peaks, as well as thicken the horizon line as shown below. The following two steps will also illustrate how participants can add stars to the sky.

11. To make a sprinkling of stars to surround the northern lights as in the picture above, participants can dip a paintbrush into white paint, then flick it on the paper.

12. Larger stars can be added with the rounded end of a wooden skewer. The paintbrush could also be used.

13. Finally, allow the paint to dry and give each participant an opportunity to show their finished art piece to the group, if desired.

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer easy-grip scissors
• Assist participants with cutting and gluing as needed
• Offer large glue sticks or a plate of liquid glue to be shared

Book Suggestions

Freddie the Flyer by Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail, Fred Carmichael and Audrea Loreen-Wulf

Glow: A Family Guide to the Night Sky by Noelia González and Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Kitcikisik (Great Sky): Tellings That Fill the Night Sky by Pawaminikititicikiw (a.k.a. Wilfred Buck) and Mistawasis Buck

Space: Science Is All Around You by Izzie Clarke and James Lancett

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Participants will assemble a paper robot (this year’s TD Summer Reading Club mascot, Cosmo) and find its centre of gravity.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Following directions
• Spatial relationships

Materials

• 8.5” x 11” cardstock
• Scissors
• Glue
• A pair of small binder clips per participant (19 mm work well)
• A pair of dimes (10-cent coins) per participant, for an added challenge
• Tape or sticky tack, if using dimes
• Pencils for balancing the robots
• Various materials for colouring

Preparation

• Print the Balancing Cosmo template. Only one page is required per participant.

Implementation

1. Participants will cut out the two Cosmo robots on the template and apply glue to the backside of everything except the robot “hands.” The two robots will be glued together with the hands left apart.

2.  Participants will either a) clip a small binder clip to each hand or b) place a dime in each hand, attaching it using sticky tack or strips of tape around the exterior of the paper. Sticky tack allows kids to easily move the coins while trying to make the robot balance.

Note: the binder clips allow the robot to balance more easily than the dimes. The dimes provide an added challenge.

3. Now the robot is complete and can be used for balancing. It’s tricky to find your balance in space! Participants can balance Cosmo on a pencil, their index finger or even the tip of their nose. It may take a few tries and they can have fun practicing.

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer easy-grip scissors
• Assist participants with cutting, gluing and taping as needed
• Offer pre-cut templates
• Offer kids a variety of instruments to colour their image and encourage them to choose what they feel most comfortable with

Book Suggestions

Little Moar and the Moon by Roselynn Akulukjuk and Jazmine Gubbe

Starboy: Inspired by the Life and Lyrics of David Bowie by Jami Gigot

Totally Silly Science: Strange Space by Robin Twiddy

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Balancing Cosmo template PDF

Images

Description

Participants will play a braille memory game, matching the alphabet braille cells

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Memory

Materials

• Braille Memory Game Activity Sheet (8.5” x 14”)

Preparation

• Print out two copies of the Braille Memory Activity Sheet.
• Cut out cards.
  o   You can include the letters below the braille cell if you prefer.
• Place cards face down on a flat surface in rows for participants.

Implementation

Rules

1.   First participant turns over two cards.

2.   If they match, participant puts the cards aside in their pile of matched cards and then repeats the process.

3.   If they don’t match, participant flips cards back over and the next player takes their turn.

4.   The game ends when all cards have been matched.

Accessibility Considerations

• Staff can prepare the memory game cards ahead of time or choose to make a few premade decks.
• Print on 8.5” x 14” cardstock if possible.
• Attach something to the back of the card to make it easier to pick up, such as
  o   small ball of clay or playdough
  o   foam sticker
  o   jewel sticker
  o   googly eye
• Use the working file to customize the size of your cards.
  o   Each alphabet braille cell is a separate image file. The alphabet letters below the cards are in a text box and not part of the card image, so you’ll have to adjust those as well.

Book Suggestions

Can’t Get Enough Space Stuff: Fun Facts, Awesome Info, Cool Games, Silly Jokes, and More! by Julie Beer and Stephanie Warren Drimmer

Maker Comics: Design a Game! by Bree Wolf and Jesse Fuchs

What Will I Discover? by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and Rachel Qiuqi

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Braille Memory Game Activity Sheet.docx (8.5" x 14") PDF

Images

Description

Participants will learn about braille and can complete one or more braille-related activities.

Note: This activity has several handouts to choose from. If you want to save paper, you can do the Decoding Braille Riddles and To the Stars Braille Activity as a group using the screen instead of printing handouts for all participants.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space with room for children to do a paper and pen activity

Competencies

• Letter recognition
• Logic and sequencing
• Mathematics
• Problem solving
• Spatial relationships
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Crayons, markers or pencil crayons
• Any of the braille cell alphabet handouts
  o Simulated Braille Alphabet with Numbers
  o Simulated Braille Cell Alphabet
  o Tactile Braille Cell Alphabet
• Tactile elements that can fit in the braille cell circles, like stickers, playdough, clay or glue
• Computer or laptop with access to a projector or computer-display screen
• Microphone
• Any of the braille-related activity worksheets (recommended order)
  o Create Your Own Braille Alphabet
  o To the Stars Braille Activity
  o Decoding Braille Riddles
  o Create a Braille Message

Preparation

• Set up screen and projector (optional).
• Distribute writing utensils and worksheets.
• We recommend handing out the worksheets after explaining the alphabet braille cells.

Implementation

1. Start Braille in Space PowerPoint presentation.
2. Click on the “cnib-beyondprint” link on the second slide to explain what braille is and how it works.
3. Explain the following:
   • Braille cells A to J provide the base for the rest of the alphabet.
   • K to T are the same as A to J, but with the third dot added.
   • U to Z are the same as K to O with the sixth dot added, except for W (which is J with an added sixth dot).
4. Follow the presentation and conduct any of the activities.

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide tactile stickers.
• Use the PowerPoint presentation

Book Suggestions

Glow: A Family Guide to the Night Sky by Noelia González and Sara Boccaccini Meadows

The Marvellers #1 by Dhonielle Clayton and Khadijah Khatib

The Postman from Space #2: Biker Bandits by Guillaume Perreault

The Universe in You: A Microscopic Journey by Jason Chin

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Braille in Space PowerPoint Presentation

Braille in Space Worksheet—Create Alphabet Braille Cells (recommended print)

Braille in Space Worksheet—Create Your Own Message (optional print)

Braille in Space Worksheet—Decoding Braille Riddles + Solution

Braille in Space Worksheet — To the Stars Braille Activity + Solution

Braille Cell Alphabet Handouts (optional printouts)

Braille in Space—Numbered Braille Cell Alphabet

Braille in Space—Simulated Braille Cell Alphabet

Braille in Space—Tactile Braille Cell Alphabet

Images

Description

A chalk silhouette bat activity that can be adapted for any animal of the night sky.

Hint: if you have all the supplies required for Aurora Borealis Art, then you can reuse them for this craft, which is targeted at a younger audience.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Dark coloured cardstock
• Chalk or chalk pastels
• Night sky animal template(s)
• Tape
• Scissors
• Sponge or paper towel (optional)

Preparation

• Print the bat template or create your own night sky animal template(s).
• Decide if participants will cut out their own templates or if you will offer them precut. Prepare accordingly.
• Set out dark coloured cardstock, chalk or chalk pastels, templates, tape, scissors (if needed) and a sponge or paper towel (optional) at each crafting station.

Implementation

1.   To begin, participants will tape their cardstock to the table to prevent it from shifting around.

2.   Participants will then place the cut template in the centre of their cardstock and securely tape it down, with assistance if required.

3.   Instruct the group to trace the template with chalk, varying the colours if desired.

4.   Using a fingertip, sponge or paper towel, participants will smudge the chalk outwards. Once the outline is entirely smudged, the template can be carefully removed to reveal the effect below. Any additional chalk dust can be gently blown away.

Accessibility Considerations

• Assist kids with taping down their bat template as needed.
• Offer different materials for smudging the chalk—for example, a sponge or paper towel.

Book Suggestions

Buffalo Wild! by Deidre Havrelock, Amethyst First Rider and Azby Whitecalf

Fiona the Fruit Bat by Dan Riskin and Rachel Qiuqi

The Hidden World of Gnomes by Lauren Soloy

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Bat Template PDF

Images

Description

Colour the illustrations by Audrey Malo

Space Considerations

An indoor space with tables and chairs where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative expression
• Development of fine motor skills

Materials

• Colouring pages
• Crayons, pencil crayons, or markers

Implementation

1.   Distribute the colouring pages and crayons to participants

2.   This activity can be run as a passive program, where you print the images and allow kids to colour them anywhere in the library, at any time of day

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer kids a variety of instruments to colour their image, and encourage them to choose what they feel most comfortable with

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Colouring Pages - All pages in one file

Colouring page 1—Playground in Space

Colouring page 2—Hamsteroid

Colouring page 3—Comet Story

Colouring page 4—Rocket Ship

Colouring page 5—Book Barbell

Colouring page 6—Maze

Colouring page 7—Pre-Reader Centrefold

Description

With the help of a caregiver, preschoolers will craft a cosmic whirligig to hang and admire.

Older kids can cut this spiral twirler on their own.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor or outdoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative expression
• Development of fine motor skills
• Eye-hand coordination

Materials

• Paper plates
• Scissors
• Markers, paint sticks, crayons, etc.
• Foam sticker star shapes or paper stars/planets to stick
• Sticker gems, if available
• Glue if needed for star shapes, etc.
• Glitter or glitter glue, optional

Preparation

• Set up the craft area with all the necessary supplies and prepare a Cosmic Whirligig to show the group.

Implementation

1. Kids will use the colouring materials to fully cover the front side of their paper plate.

2. With the help of an adult, if required, a spiral shape will be cut into the plate. Begin at the outer edge and cut inwards to the centre.

3. At this stage, kids can add foam sticker shapes, gems, glitter or whatever additions they would like.

4. Finally, with assistance, a hole will be poked in the centre of the whirligig and a ribbon or string can be attached for hanging.

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer kids a variety of instruments to colour and encourage them to choose what they feel most comfortable with
• Assist participants with cutting and gluing as needed

Book Suggestions

The Keeper of Stars by Jennifer Harris and Dorothy Leung

The Shape of You by Muon Thi Van and Miki Sato

What If Bedtime Didn’t Exist? by Francine Cunningham and Mathias Ball

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Participants will customize their own game board, game pieces and create rules

Number of participants

For 2 or more participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Development of fine motor skills
• Following directions
• Logic and sequencing
• Spatial relationships
• Strategic thinking
• Understanding cause and effect relationships
• Written communication skills

Materials

Board Game

• Game Board Template #1
• Game Board Template #2
• Game Board Template #3
• Galaxy Board Game Parts template
• Extra scrap paper for game design rough work
• Liquid glue, glue sticks or tape
• Foam or Puffy stickers (optional)
• Dice (optional)

Game Pieces Options

• Foam stickers (paper backing still attached)
• Playdough, plasticine or clay
• Small objects (plastic figures, toys, etc)
• Coloured googly eyes
• Plastic or wooden beads
• Wood cut shapes

Preparation

• Prepare the room for a program that uses glue
• Print out whichever game board templates you want to use (3 options provided)

Implementation

1. Distribute templates and scrap paper for participants to plan their game
2. Distribute craft materials to create game pieces

Design Game

• Design the look for your game
• Use template to design your game
• Create your own game board

Create rules for the game

• How many players can play?
• What is the goal of the game?
• How does a player achieve the goal?
• How is order of play decided?
• Are there special rules?

Dice + alternatives

• Decide on standard dice or dice alternative
• If needed, create your own dice alternative

Testing

• Test your game and modify accordingly

Accessibility Considerations

• Use provided templates
• Provide tactile elements for the game
• Create example rules for the game
  o Example: If you land on the tail of a star, slide up to the star. If you land on star, slide down the tail
• Alternative (standard) dice option

o Oversized dice

* This larger format dice makes it easier for participants to roll the dice and see the numbers

• Alternatives to dice

o Numbered paper or tactile options

* Numbered pieces of paper in a paper bag / box / bin

* Plastic eggs or plastic capsules in a paper bag / box / bin

• Staff can assist with opening eggs or capsules if participants need assistance

o Playing cards

* Playing cards (standard or oversized) corresponding to numbers 1-6 (Ace card would represent 1)

* Then participants can point to or select from the face down cards

o Numbered spoons / Spoons labelled with prompts

* Assign numbers to spoons

* Then select spoons from a cup

o Spinners

* Activity spinner template, a brad and a paper clip or arrow

* A paper plate with lines dividing into 6 sections, a paper clip and a pen/pencil)

Book Suggestions

Maker Comics: Design a Game! by Bree Wolf and Jesse Fuchs

Teen Astronauts #3: Mission to Mars by Eric Walters

The Misewa Saga Book #4: The Portal Keeper by David A. Robertson

Packing for Mars, for Kids by Mary Roach

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Game Board Template #1

Game Board Template #2

Game Board Template #3

Galaxy Board Game Parts template

Activity Spinners

Images

Description

Participants and their caregivers will create space creatures out of cupcake liners and various craft materials.

This activity can be packaged as passive programming.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Creative expression
• Development of fine motor skills
• Spatial relationships
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Cupcake liners
• Pencils, pencil crayons, markers or crayons
• Various types of stickers
• Googly eyes
• Tape or liquid glue or glue sticks
• Scissors (adult use only)

Preparation

• Cut any materials needed for the craft.
• Create a few creatures as examples.
• Pre-make some paper props for the space creatures.
• Project examples on a screen (optional).

Implementation

1.   Distribute cupcake liners and craft materials.

2.   Participants can create their own space creatures with craft materials on hand.

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide various types of cupcake liners if possible
• Create premade paper props for activity
• Provide large glue sticks and/or tape
• Provide both right-handed and left-handed safety scissors (adults only)

Book Suggestions

Granny Left Me a Rocket Ship by Heather Smith & Ashley Barron

Hold That Thought by Bree Galbraith & Lynn Scurfield

The Little Prince by Louise Greig & Sarah Massini

One Giant Leap by Thao Lam

Soon, Your Hands by Jonathan Stutzman & Elizabeth Lilly

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

A UFO craft

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Artistic expression
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions

Materials

• Paper bowls (or paper plates)
• Materials for colouring, such as markers and crayons. Paint is optional
• Clear plastic cups
• Liquid glue
• Googly eyes
• Pompoms in various sizes: large ones for the aliens and small ones for decoration
• Adhesive gems

Preparation

• Display a prepared sample of the flying saucer to show participants.

Implementation

1. Have the participants colour or paint the exterior of two paper bowls and set them aside to dry if needed.

2. Next, participants will create their alien. They will attach googly eyes to a large pompom using the liquid glue. Set the alien aside with ample time to dry.

3. Then participants will glue both bowls (or plates) together to form the body of the flying saucer.

4. Using the gemstones and small pompoms, kids can add pretend lights or markings to their flying saucer.

 5. Once the googly eyes have dried on the pompom alien, it can be glued to the top of the flying saucer.

6. Participants will colour or draw pretend beams of light on one of the plastic cups. Paint sticks work well since they have a waxy consistency.

7. Attach the cup to the base of the spaceship with glue. A glue gun can help to speed up drying time here, but adult assistance will be required. Once dry, participants can play with their flying saucer. Hint: kids can fit small animal figurines inside the beam and pretend to lift them into the spacecraft.

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer pre-cut templates
• Set out glue on a plate for all kids to share
• Print instructions on bigger paper with larger font
• Offer tactile craft pieces to stick onto the alien’s ship
• Offer kids a blank page to draw their own alien rather than cutting out the template

Book Suggestions

The Book from Far Away by Bruce Handy and Julie Benbassat

Invasion of the Unicorns by David Biedrzycki

Super Space Weekend: Adventures in Astronomy by Gaëlle Alméras and David Warriner

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Let’s learn a few words in Nova Scotian and New Brunswick Mi’kmaw dialects and Anishinaabemowin Eastern Ojibwe language.

The activity sheet can be used for passive programming.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Creative expression
• Development of fine motor skills
• Study of nature
• Understanding and appreciation of Indigenous languages
• Vocabulary building

Materials

• Drawing activity handout
• Pencils and erasers
• Crayons, markers or pencil crayons
• Computer or laptop with access to a projector or computer-display screen (optional)
• Book display with nature, animals, Mi’kmaw and Anishinaabemowin content

Preparation

• Print drawing activity handout
• Set up computer or laptop with access to a projector or computer-display screen (optional)
• Distribute supplies

Implementation

1.   Read some sections of books with Mi’kmaw or Anishinaabemowin content

2.   Distribute the drawing activity handout

3.   Read the words out loud and encourage participants to read them aloud as well

4.   Give participants time to work on the whole worksheet at their own pace and in whatever order they want

Accessibility Considerations

• Project the words or worksheet on a screen
• Read the words aloud
• Provide various writing tools
• Participants can work together
• Provide books or a handout with images of these words

Book Suggestions

Amazing L'nu'k: A Celebration of the People of Mi'kma'ki by Julie Pellissier-Lush, Robin Grant and James Bentley

Mi’kmaw Moons: The Seasons in Mi'kma'ki by Cathy LeBlanc, David Chapman and Loretta Gould

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Drawing Activity Handout (2 pages) PDF

Images

Description

Participants will create their own origami rocket and decorate it

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative expression
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Logic and sequencing
• Spatial relationships

Materials

• 8.5” x 11” paper
• Crayons, markers or pencil crayons
• Pencils and erasers
• Liquid glue or glue sticks (optional)
• Projector and screen (optional)
• Microphone (optional)
• Tactile elements (optional)
  o   Foam shapes
  o   Foam stickers
  o   Googly eyes
  o   String, twine, yarn or ribbons
  o   Stickers

Preparation

• Print origami rocket instructions with images for participants to take away
  *We recommend making this available after you instruct, as some participants will finish quicker or get confused if the instructions are handed out ahead of time
• Set up screen and projector (optional)
• Set up a microphone (optional)

Implementation

1.   Fold top left corner diagonally to create a triangle, then unfold. Do the opposite side and then unfold. You should end up with an X crease (fold line) on the top of your page.

2.   Flip the page over and turn it upside down. Fold the bottom of the page up, folding the X in half, and then unfold. Flip the page over and turn it so that the X is near the top again

3.   Press your finger into the X so the paper pops forward. Notice how the horizontal line crosses the two side triangles

4.   Use the horizontal crease line to fold the side triangles inward and the top triangle will automatically fold down. Your figure should look like a house with a triangle roof

5.   Take the top triangle on the right and fold it over to the left side

6.   Fold the right-hand section vertically in half towards the centre so that the edge of the section aligns with the centre of the figure

7.   Fold the right-hand section vertically again towards the centre, aligning the edge again

8.   Fold the top two left triangle layers to the right side

9.   Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the left side

10. Take the top right triangle layer and fold it over to the left. Your figure should look like an UP arrow

11.   Fold the base of the arrow over the bottom of the triangle, then tuck it into the triangle pocket

12.   Fold the left triangle behind the figure, using the base of the arrow to create a crease line, then unfold. Do the same to the right side

13.    Use your pointer figure to tuck the right triangle into the side (pocket) of the rocket. Make sure that it is tucked all the way in so that the bottom edge of the triangle aligns with the bottom edge of the rocket. Do the same to the left side

14. Decorate your rocket as you like with colouring tools, stickers, glue or other tactile elements.

Accessibility Considerations

• Use 8.5” x 11” paper
• Go over steps one at a time
• Have an additional staff member on hand to assist
• Add tactile elements to the rocket
• Provide origami rocket instructions with images to take away
• Use a projector and screen (optional)

Book Suggestions

Grace Needs Space! by Benjamin A. Wilgus and Rii Abrego

Packing for Mars for Kids by Mary Roach

Where Are the Aliens?: The Search for Life Beyond Earth by Stacy McAnulty and Nicole Miles

Arcade World #4: Earth to Aliens by Nate Bitt and Glass House Graphics

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Origami Rocket Instructions PDF

Images

Description

A craft that will model the different phases of the moon

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Eye-hand coordination
• Problem solving

Materials

• Dark blue cardstock (8.5” x 11”)
• Black cardstock (11” x 17”)
• White printer paper
• Black markers
• Full Moon Template
• Phases of the Moon Sheet
• Circle Template
• Pencils
• Scissors
• Foam star stickers (optional)
• Stapler

Preparation

• Print Full Moon Templates
• Print Phases of the Moon Sheets
• Prepare for each participant to have
  o   Two pieces of blue cardstock
  o   One black cardstock
  o   A piece of white printer paper to trace eight circles
  o   Pencil
  o   Scissors
  o   Black marker
  o   Glue
  o   One Full Moon Template
  o   One Phases of the Moon Sheet
  o   One Circle Template
  o   Foam star stickers (optional)
  o   Stapler (can be shared)

Implementation

1. Instruct your participants to cut out the Full Moon Template. They will trace the full moon in the centre of one of their blue cardstock pieces, then carefully cut out the circle, as shown below.

2. The Full Moon Template will be glued to the middle of a second piece of blue cardstock.

3. Then participants can begin preparing their phases of the moon. Instruct them to reference their Phases of the Moon Sheet to colour in each of the eight circles appropriately on the white printer paper. When they are finished, they can cut out all the circles.

4. The eight phases of the moon will be glued to the cardstock with the hole in the centre, as show below.

5. Participants will then use the blue cardstock with the hole in the centre to trace a curve on the black cardstock, as shown by the red line below. They will cut out the curve and repeat it on the opposite end of the black cardstock. This piece of black cardstock will be the slider and may require trimming after the next step is completed.

6. The two pieces of blue cardstock will be stapled together with all the edges aligned. The full moon piece will be on the bottom and the phases of the moon piece will be on top so that the full moon appears through the hole in the centre. Optional foam sticker shapes or other add-ons can be useful for hiding the staples!

7. Now it’s time for everyone to test their slider. Show your participants how to insert their black cardstock slider in between the two pieces of blue cardstock. As they pull the black cardstock through, they will be depicting the different phases of the moon.

8. Here is a problem-solving opportunity: ask your group how they could depict the remaining moon phases with their slider. Hint: they could cut off a rounded edge and have one side of the black slider be completely straight.

Accessibility Considerations

• Assist participants with cutting and gluing as needed
• Offer easy grip scissors
• Have a couple of the templates already pre-cut
• If possible, print craft instructions in large font

Book Suggestions

A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse by Kate Allen Fox and Khoa Le

Mi’kmaw Moons: The Seasons in Mi’kma’ki by Cathy LeBlanc, David Chapman and Loretta Gould

Saving the Night: How Light Pollution Is Harming Life on Earth by Stephen Aitken

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Full Moon Template PDF

Circle Template PDF

Phases of the Moon Sheet PDF

Images

Description

Participants will look at images of constellations and re-create them using pipe cleaners and plastic beads.

The activity can be made into a passive program if you bundle craft supplies with the handout.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Mathematics
• Spatial relationships
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Pipe cleaners
• Plastic or wooden beads
• Books about constellations
• Pipe Cleaner Constellations Examples handout

Preparation

• Print out Pipe Cleaner Constellations Examples handout or create your own visual tool for kids to copy (optional)
• Create a book display of constellation books

Implementation

1. Distribute Pipe Cleaner Constellations Examples handout

2. Describe what each constellation looks like (e.g., the Little Dipper is in the shape of a spoon)

3. Encourage participants to count out the beads they need for each constellation before they begin creating them

Accessibility Considerations

• Describe what the constellations look like
• Encourage participants to work together if needed
• Give participants the chance to create their own constellation
• Use large pipe cleaners

Book Suggestions

Can’t Get Enough Space Stuff: Fun Facts, Awesome Info, Cool Games, Silly Jokes, and More! by Julie Beer and Stephanie Warren Drimmer

Maker Comics: Design a Game! By Bree Wolf and Jesse Fuchs

What Will I Discover? by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and Rachel Qiuqi

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Pipe Cleaner Constellations Examples handout.docx

Images

Description

Participants will roll storytelling dice to create stories.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An open space (indoor or outdoor) is needed to fit all participants in a circle of chairs

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Following directions
• Logic and sequencing
• Oral communication skills
• Vocabulary building

Materials

• Customize Your Dice Handouts for
  o Characters
  o Settings
  o Objects
• Safety scissors
• Paper
• Pens or pencils
• Crayons, markers or pencil crayons (optional)
• Paper

Preparation

• Distribute materials to create custom dice.

Implementation

1. Participants create 1–3 types of dice (characters, settings, objects).
2. Roll 1–3 dice to decide story elements.
3. Create a story based on what is selected.
4. Share the story with other participants either in a small or large group.
   

Accessibility Considerations

Allow participants to create their own prompts using the customizable dice template.

• Dice options
  o Oversized dice
  *Create the list of six words for character, object and setting and assign a number to each, then use an oversized die to choose something from each list.
  
  o Tactile sticker dice
  *Create dice using tactile foam stickers (space-related or animal stickers, etc.).
  
  o Picture dice
  *Pictures can be drawn on the dice instead of using words.
  
• Alternatives to dice
  o Tactile items from a box
  *Put small objects or labelled pieces of paper in plastic eggs or plastic capsules for participants to select.
  
  o Playing cards
  *Playing cards corresponding to numbered character, setting or object prompts (e.g., for settings: ace—moon, 2—spaceship, 3—Pluto) can be laid out facedown.
  *Participants can point to or select from the facedown cards.
  
  o Numbered spoons/spoons labelled with prompts
  *Assign numbered spoons to characters, settings or objects.
  *Select spoons from a cup.
  
• Playing method options
  o Provide an option for group storytelling where the whole group creates story together.
  o Group of three can create a story together, with each participant rolling a die.

Book Suggestions

Dragons in a Bag #4: The Enchanted Bridge by Zetta Elliott and Cherise Harris

Maker Comics: Design a Game! by Bree Wolf and Jesse Fuchs

Teen Astronauts #3: Mission to Mars by Eric Walters

Trouble in the Stars by Sarah Prineas

The Marvellers #1 by Dhonielle Clayton and Khadijah Khatib

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Customize Your Dice Handout

Dice Examples

Images

Description

A scavenger hunt to find the paper shapes needed to make a rocket craft. Kids will assemble their rocket and fly it like a paper bag puppet.

Space Considerations

An indoor or outdoor space where paper shapes can be hidden and participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Development of fine motor skills
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Paper sandwich bags
• Coloured printer paper (Suggested: red, yellow, blue, green, and orange). However, templates are customizable; label the shapes with any colours that you have available
• Glue sticks
• Scissors for older kids or caregivers cutting out the shapes
• Streamers or ribbon to add rocket flames
• Optional stickers or decorations

Preparation

• Print copies of the “Rocket Shapes front of bag” template. Trim the templates and glue them onto the front of your paper bags. Glue the template so that the base of the rocket is positioned along the opening of the bag. See implementation below for a completed rocket to help visualize
  
• Print copies of the “Scavenger Hunt list” template. Cut them and put one into each prepared paper bag
• Print the shapes on the coloured paper indicated or change the “Rocket shapes front of bag” template to match the colours you have available
• Decide if participants will cut out their individual shapes, or if the shapes will be entirely precut with no border. Cut along the dotted lines if kids/caregivers will be cutting out the individual shapes. Otherwise, cut along the solid lines.
  

Implementation

1.   Have a sample paper bag already glued and on display.

2. Explain to kids and their caregivers that they have a list of shapes to find, which is inside their paper bag.

3. Explain that they will be completing the rocket image on the front of the bag by gluing all of the shapes that they find. Point out the streamers or ribbons that will be added as rocket flames and any other decorations.

4. Then invite everyone to find their necessary shapes, hidden around the room.

5. Assemble the group at the crafting area when they are ready to glue their rocket together.

6. Once the shapes are added and the optional streamers/ribbon are glued on to make the rocket flames, the paper bag can be used as a rocket “puppet.”

Accessibility Considerations

• Outline the rocket shapes with a bead of glue or playdough for a child. Offer pre-made bags with all of the necessary shapes already inside so that a child can pick out the shape, feel the border, then place it on the rocket template on the front
• Offer large glue sticks or liquid glue in a large shallow container with craft sticks for kids to share

Book Suggestions

The Only Astronaut by Mahak Jain and Andrea Stegmaier

Hush, Little Rocket by Mo O'Hara & Alexandra Cook

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Circles – Yellow.docx

Rectangle – Blue.docx

Rectangle – Orange.docx

Triangle – Green.docx

Triangles – Red.docx

Rocket Shapes – front of bag.docx

Rocket Shapes Scavenger Hunt – list.docx

Images

Description

An active group game where kids will race to parts of the rocket and quickly perform actions associated with commands.

A fun spin on the classic camp game, “Ships and Sailors.”

Number of participants

For three or more participants. Cap the program based on available space

Space Considerations

An open space (indoor or outdoor)

Competencies

• Body awareness
• Following directions
• Imaginative play
• Memory
• Oral communication skills

Materials

• Rocket label templates or paper for labelling the playing area
• Tape
• Chalk, if outside

Preparation

• Clear a playing area
• Print templates or create your own
• Set out labels for the different parts of the rocket. Spread them far enough apart so that each station can accommodate however many kids are playing

*nose cone (front of room or area)

*left fin (left side)

*body tube (centre)

*right fin (right side)

*exhaust flames (back of room or area)

Implementation

1. Decide on a “launch pad”—a starting point for all the participants to gather. Explain that the playing area is broken down into the parts of a rocket. Name the parts and explain where they are in the playing area.

2. Shout out the parts of the rocket and have all the participants quickly move to that area. Do a few rounds and make sure to include all five of the rocket parts.

3. Once everyone is comfortable, shout out a part of the rocket followed by a command. Participants will move to that area and quickly complete the command.

4. Game play could include eliminating the last participant to complete the command from the next round of the game, but this is an optional challenge.

Commands

Ground control! Get low to the ground, crouch down or point down low.

Blast off! Put both arms up overhead. Jumping optional.

Commander’s coming! Stand tall and salute.

At ease! Releases players from the “stand tall and salute” position.

Alien invasion! Stick both pointer fingers over your head like antennas.

Moonwalk! Bounce up and down or move your arms like you are wading through space.

North Star! Do a star jump. Kids can open arms and legs in a star stance instead.

Meteor shower! Pretend to wash in the shower: shampoo hair, scrub arms, etc.

Extend the fun

• Remove the rocket labels for an added memory challenge.
• Allow participants to take turns being the Commander and shouting out the parts of the rocket plus a command.
• Have kids come up with their own space commands and suitable actions to follow. Invite them forward to be the Commander.
  

Accessibility Considerations

• Use a microphone if available
• Provide alternatives to movement options. For example, kids don’t have to jump—they can make a “jumping” motion with their hands instead
• Use large font to label the room with the rocket parts

Book Suggestions

The Book of Blast Off!: 15 Real-Life Space Missions by Timothy Knapman and Nik Henderson

How It’s Built: Rocket by Elise Wallace and Richard Watson

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Rockets and Commanders - room labels PDF

Images

Description

This activity consists of three stations, all related to measurement.

Participants will measure moon jumps, track their height in orbit lines and try a non-standard measurement worksheet that can be used for passive programming.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can spread out across three stations, then be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Logic and sequencing
• Mathematics
• Sensory motor skills
• Spatial relationships
• Understanding cause and effect

Materials

• Chart paper (optional for long jump)
• Markers
• Paper and pencils for recording measurements
• Planet templates or paper to create your own
• Painter’s tape
• Measuring tape
• Beanbags (provided for any kids who may not jump)
• Non-standard measurement handouts
• Materials for non-standard measurement (for example, small building blocks, paper clips, circle stickers)

Preparation

• For the moon jump station, lay a long strip of painter’s tape on the floor and place the measuring tape beside it. This is the setup for a long jump. You can also mark centimetres or inches* directly on strips of painter’s tape, then create several jumping stations so that participants do not have to wait for a turn.
  *Choose a unit of measurement and keep it consistent throughout.

• You can also tape chart paper to the wall for kids to perform a high jump instead of a long jump, or prepare both options, given your space considerations. The high jump will require markers.
• For the height station, follow the diagram below: each line represents a strip of tape. Use the printable templates for each planet or create your own.
• Lay eight strips of painter’s tape on either the floor or a wall. If the tape is on the wall, then kids will begin by standing with their feet at the sun. If the taped orbit lines are on the floor, kids will lie with their feet at the sun. Consider the approximate height of your child participants in order to decide how far apart you would like the taped orbit lines to be.

• For the non-standard measurement station, set out your handouts and measuring materials of choice. There should be enough of each individual material for kids to lay beside the images on the handout. For example, if you are using paper clips, each child may require up to 20 paper clips to complete the activity. Kids can rotate and share supplies.
• Post the rules for non-standard measurement (from the back of the non-standard measurement handout) or explain them to the group.

Implementation

Moon Jump Station

1. Explain to participants that they will either be doing a long jump or a high jump, or both, if your space allows.

For the long jump, a child will stand with their toes touching the tip of the tape line. Without a running start, they will bend their knees and jump as far as they can along the tape. If someone does not want to jump, they are welcome to do an underhanded beanbag toss. Record the measurement.

For the high jump, a child will stand facing the chart paper that is taped on the wall, while holding a marker. Ask them to reach overhead and make a dot on the paper as high up as they can reach without standing on their toes. Then, invite them to take a small step backwards, bend their knees, jump up and make a second mark on the paper at their highest point. Measure the distance between the initial mark and the second mark. Record the measurement.

2. Explain the concept of gravity in simple terms—it’s what keeps us on the ground. Ask the group if gravity on the moon is a) the same as Earth, b) stronger than Earth or c) weaker than Earth. You can show video clips of astronauts performing moon jumps or simply poll the group.

*Gravity is weaker on the moon than on Earth; it is only 1/6 as strong on the moon. How does that affect jumping? While on the moon, you are 1/6 as heavy, but your muscles are still as strong as on Earth. That means you can jump six times as far!

3. Invite kids to take their jumping measurement and multiply it by 6. They can use a calculator or scrap paper. Record everyone’s moon jump numbers to compare.

Kids can use the chart below to calculate their jumps on other planets also. Rather than multiplying by six, use the numbers here:

• Mercury: 2.6
• Venus: 1.1
• Mars: 2.7
• Jupiter: 0.4
• Saturn: 0.94
• Uranus: 1.1
• Neptune: 0.9
• Pluto: 15
• Sun: 0.035
• Titan (moon of Saturn): 7.1
• Ganymede (moon of Jupiter): 6.7
• Triton (moon of Neptune): 12.8
• Ceres (dwarf planet in the asteroid belt): 33.3

Height Station

1. Participants will line up at the wall or lie down on the floor, depending on your setup, with their feet touching the sun.

2. They will require someone in the group to tell them what planet their head is closest to.

3. Encourage participants to learn a fun fact about the planet they aligned with.

Non-Standard Measurement Station

1. Participants will use the following rules of non-standard measurement to complete their worksheet with the available materials:

• Start at one end point
• No gaps between measuring items
• No overlapping measuring items
• Use the same measuring items throughout (for example, don’t mix blocks and paper clips to measure the same object)

2. Participants can record their non-standard measurements and compare with other participants.

Accessibility Considerations

• As mentioned, kids can toss a beanbag or ball to measure the distance rather than jumping
• Add a tactile element to the non-standard measurement handout. For example, beads of glue around the outline of the planets, so that a child could approximate the measurement through touch
• Use large text for any labels around the room
• The non-standard measurement handout can be a take-home activity for kids who require more time to complete it

Book Suggestions

The Book of Blast Off!: 15 Real-Life Space Missions by Timothy Knapman and Nik Henderson

Can’t Get Enough Space Stuff: Fun Facts, Awesome Info, Cool Games, Silly Jokes, and More! by Julie Beer and Stephanie Warren Drimmer

Mi’kmaw Moons: The Seasons in Mi’kma’ki by Cathy LeBlanc, David Chapman and Loretta Gould

Pluto! Not a Planet? Not a Problem! by Stacy McAnulty and Stevie Lewis

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Non-Standard Measurement - handout.docx

Earth PDF

Jupiter PDF

Mars PDF

Mercury PDF

Moon PDF

Neptune PDF

Saturn PDF

Sun PDF

Uranus PDF

Venus PDF

Description

Participants will create their own planet with a stencil and sponge paint

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Artistic expression
• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Development of fine motor skills
• Eye-hand coordination
• Spatial relationships

Materials

• Sponge Paint Planet Template
• Black cardstock or construction paper
• Scissors (adult use only)
• Paint
• Small pieces of sponge
• Tactile stickers or items (optional)
• Newspaper or table covering
• Book display titles related to planets (for participants to reference)

Preparation

• Prepare the room for a program that uses glue or paint
• Print out Sponge Paint Planet Templates

Implementation

1.   Distribute Sponge Paint Planet Templates

2.   Distribute materials

Instructions:

1.   Fold Sponge Paint Planet Template vertically in half

2.  Cut the half-circle out. The remaining sheet is your stencil

3. Unfold the stencil and place it over black paper

4.   Hold the stencil in place while using a sponge to apply paint over the black circle, especially the borders

5. When finished, remove the stencil and decorate the rest of the sheet as you like

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide pre-cut stencils for planets
• Encourage participants to help each other: one can hold the stencil in place while the other applies paint
• Use various tactile craft supplies to add to sponge painting, such as
  o   small foam stars
  o   star stickers

Book Suggestions

Hush, Little Rocket by Mo O’Hara and Alexandra Cook

Little Moar and the Moon by Roselynn Akulukjuk and Jazmine Gubbe

Oolichan Moon by Samantha Beynon and Lucy Trimble

Pluto! Not a Planet? Not a Problem! by Stacy McAnulty and Stevie Lewis

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Sponge Paint Planet Template.docx

Images

Description

Read-aloud story and activity. Read Star Fishing by Sang-Keun Kim, then participants will use homemade “fishing rods” to catch star cutouts.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An open space, indoor or outdoor

Competencies

• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Imaginative play
• Letter recognition
• Sensory motor skills

Materials

This activity uses materials that could pose a choking hazard and are to be used with adult supervision only.

• Cardstock or craft foam
• Paper clips or magnetic tape
• Wooden dowels
• String
• Magnets
• Strong glue or hot glue gun (for adult use only)
• Large wooden beads (optional)
• Star Template (optional)

Preparation

• Prepare the star cutouts on either cardstock or craft foam. Use the template provided if desired. Stars can be different colours so that kids can sort them. They can also have a letter drawn on for letter identification.
• Attach a paper clip or a piece of magnetic tape to each star.
• Make the “fishing rods.” Attach a length of string to the dowel by tying it and securing with glue. To estimate the length of string required, consider the approximate length of a preschooler’s arm. If using the large wooden bead, attach it to the end of the string, above where the magnet will attach. Glue the strong magnet to the end.

Implementation

1.   Scatter the prepared stars around the room or provide each child or small group with a container filled with stars.

2.   Distribute a makeshift fishing rod to each participant.

3.   Encourage them to fish for stars and have fun. They can sort colours, track letters (if applicable) or count how many stars they have caught.

Accessibility Considerations

• Allow the kids to feel the stars before beginning the activity.
• Allow the participants to place some stars in a box or container. Make sure the paper clip is attached to each one. If budget allows, use magnetic tape on the stars and ensure that the magnet side is facing up.
• Add a tactile element to the stars with raised stickers or glue or cut them out of foam.

Book Suggestions

The Blanket Where Violet Sits by Allan Wolf and Lauren Tobia

Star Fishing by Sang-Keun Kim

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Star Template PDF

Images

Description

A simple star wand craft to pair with read-aloud stories and rhymes.

Caregivers can use the star wand as a reading pointer after the program, modelling reading from left to right and adding a touch of whimsy when tapping on key words or details in the books.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft and listen to a story

Competencies

• Creative expression
• Following directions
• Reading comprehension
• Rhythm and music appreciation

Materials

This craft uses items that are potential choking hazards and should be used under adult supervision only.

• Popsicle sticks, large or small
• Adhesive foam stars or shapes
• Glue
• Jewel stickers
• Ribbons
• Other optional items for colouring or decoration
• Star Wand Action Songs and Rhymes document

Preparation

• Set out supplies for making the star wands
• Print song and rhyme lyrics (optional)
• Prepare a book display to accompany the activity

Implementation

1. Invite kids and caregivers to prepare their magic star wands with the materials provided.

2. Begin the storytime portion of the program. Invite everyone to use their wands along with the various storytime cues. Use the ideas in the Action Songs and Rhymes document or create your own. Prompts could include waving the wand any time the words “moon” and “star” are mentioned in the books or by the presenter.

3. Participants can keep the wand and use it as a reading pointer when naming common words or highlighting image details in picture books.

Accessibility Considerations

• Use a storyboard to show the flow of the entire program
• Use repetition
• Use tactile, lift-the-flap, oversized and braille books where available
• Lower the lights
• If possible, provide toys to fidget with that are different colours and textures
• Consider adding music

Book Suggestions

Baby, Sleepy Baby by Atinuke and Angela Brooksbank

Hush, Little Rocket by Mo O’Hara and Alexandra Cook

Fiona the Fruit Bat by Dan Riskin and Rachel Qiuqi

Welcome, Dark by Charis St. Pierre and Rachel Wada

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Star Wand - Action Songs and Rhymes PDF

Images

Description

Two science-related experiments: a star demonstration using toothpicks and water and a hands-on wax paper maze.

Choose one or both of these experiments.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Science
• Understanding cause and effect

Materials

Magic Toothpick Star

• Toothpicks (can be coloured using markers or paint sticks, but not essential)
• Eyedropper
• Water
• Flat clean surface, such as a plate or tabletop

Wax Paper Maze

• Wax paper
• Eyedroppers
• Water
• Food colouring or watercolour paint to dye the water droplet (optional)
• Maze template, if using
• Markers if kids are drawing their own mazes
• Pencils, thin wooden dowels or skewers with the points cut off
• Masking tape

Preparation

Magic Toothpick Star

• Fill an eyedropper with water.
• Colour each of the 5 individual toothpicks a different colour or leave them plain. Gently bend them in half, but do not break them apart.

• Note: read through the implementation below. Test this experiment first before demonstrating it for your group. For example, in step 1, experiment with how far apart the toothpicks should be placed in the star arrangement to produce the best result given the surface you’ve chosen.

Wax Paper Maze

• Print maze templates, if using, or lay out markers for kids to draw their own mazes.
• Cut lengths of wax paper. Tape the wax paper over the maze template or directly to the table if kids are drawing their own. This is to prevent slippage.

Implementation

Magic Toothpick Star

1. Arrange the toothpicks in the pattern shown below. Using coloured toothpicks can help kids see this arrangement more clearly, but it is not necessary. The toothpicks are close together but not completely touching.

2. Add a few drops of water to the centre of the arrangement. It may take up to a full eyedropper of water. Remember: test this experiment first before demonstrating it for the group.

3. Watch the star expand.

4. Repeat the experiment for any kids who missed the magic.

*Scientific explanation: the wood fibres absorb droplets of water. As the wood swells, the toothpicks straighten. The toothpicks push together, which opens the star.

Wax Paper Maze

1.   Distribute pencils or thin wooden dowels and explain to kids that they will be using the tip to drag a drop of water through the maze.

2.   Hand out eyedroppers or place a drop of water on each child’s piece of wax paper. Food colouring can be used to dye the water. A bit of watercolour paint dabbed on the individual droplet also works well.

3.   Let kids drag their drop of water through the maze. If the droplet is very large, it will be difficult to drag. Droplets may split into smaller drops. Let kids experiment. Note: the wax coating does eventually break down after repeated uses, meaning that the water will start soaking through. If desired, replace the wax paper and start again.

*Scientific explanation: the wax repels the water. Surface tension holds the drop of water together. The droplet slides over the wax without being absorbed by the paper. The water is cohesive (sticking to itself) versus adhesive (sticking to other substances).

Extend the fun

• Kids can trade hand-drawn mazes with a partner

Accessibility Considerations

• Find different templates to use for the maze, some that are simpler and others more complex
• For the toothpick demonstration, be prepared with ample supplies to conduct the experiment several times so that children can take turns standing close to it

Book Suggestions

Can’t Get Enough Space Stuff: Fun Facts, Awesome Info, Cool Games, Silly Jokes, and More! by Julie Beer and Stephanie Warren Drimmer

Totally Silly Science: Strange Space by Robin Twiddy

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Wax Paper Maze template.docx

Description

An art piece using watercolour paints and salt to create a starry-sky effect.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Artistic expression
• Science

Materials

• Watercolour paints
• Cups of water
• Paintbrushes
• Watercolour paper or cardstock
• Spray bottle or small sponge (optional)
• Salt (different varieties—coarse, fine, etc.—will produce different results)
• Spoons (optional)
• Star stickers (optional)
• Pencils for sketching
• Erasers
• Masking or painter’s tape

Preparation

• Prepare the cardstock by securing it to the table with masking or painter’s tape. You can create a border by taping the paper equally around the four edges.

• Set out watercolour paints, cups of water, pencils for sketching, erasers and paintbrushes for each participant. Add a small dish of salt at each station. Kids can use their fingers to sprinkle the salt, but spoons may also be provided.

Implementation

1.   Invite kids to select a nocturnal animal to feature in their art piece—for example, an owl, a fox, a wolf, a bat or a hedgehog. They can sketch the animal or choose to paint an entire night scene.

2.   Once the animal is sketched, it is ready to be painted.

3. Then, it is time to paint the night sky. Inform kids that they will be sprinkling salt on the night sky sections of their art piece. Note: for the galaxy effect to occur, the paint must still be wet when the salt is added. Working in sections (painting a corner, adding salt, then continuing to another section) is a good way to tackle this technique. Point out the spray bottles or sponges if kids need to remoisten their paper, or invite them to rewet their paintbrush and touch up the area before adding salt, if needed.

4. While the paintings dry, provide participants with a scientific explanation for this technique. Invite them to make predictions about how the painting will look once the paint has dried and the salt is brushed away.

Salt is a desiccant: it loves to soak up water. That’s why salty food makes us thirsty; it absorbs the water from our body tissue, leaving us needing more H2O. When the salt absorbs the watercolour paint, it creates the effect that you are about to see.

5. When the painting is dry, gently brush off the salt to reveal the starry night sky. A dry paintbrush can work, but participants can also use their hands. Some salt may stick, which creates texture and a faint sparkle.

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide spoons for sprinkling salt for any children who may have fine motor difficulties.
• Provide multiple materials for kids to draw with or add to the picture (e.g., 3‑D rocket ship stickers).
• Sponges can be offered for painting with the watercolours instead of skinny paintbrushes that can be difficult to grip.

Book Suggestions

Kitcikisik (Great Sky): Tellings That Fill the Night Sky by Pawaminikititicikiw (a.k.a. Wilfred Buck) and Mistawasis Buck

Mi’kmaw Moons: The Seasons in Mi’kma’ki by Cathy LeBlanc, David Chapman and Loretta Gould

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Participants will create their own drawings and then animate them

The activity worksheet can be used for passive programming

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Creative expression
• Logic and sequencing
• Spatial relationships
• Understanding shapes

Materials

• Pencils, pencil crayons, markers or crayons
• Sticky notes
• Paper (larger than the sticky notes)

Preparation

• Create basic drawings that can be easily copied to give participants ideas

Implementation

1. Draw characters on the paper with their mouths closed in a line, ensuring the drawing fits within the size of the sticky note

2. Place a sticky note on top of each character, leaving room to bend where the adhesive part ends

3. Trace the original images, but this time draw the mouths open in a talking or singing action

4. Pinch bottom corner of each sticky note and quickly flip it up and down to see the characters talk or sing

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide a simple drawing template (i.e. the sun and moon) for those who might want to use it
• Consider large sticky notes
• Have a variety of drawing tools
• Participants can work in pairs: one does original drawing, the other traces on top of the sticky note

Book Suggestions

Cat’s Cradle #1: The Golden Twine by Jo Rioux

Star Knights by Kay Davault

The Misewa Saga #4: The Portal Keeper by David A. Robertson

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Participants will craft a sun, Earth and moon using paper and craft sticks. The crafts can be used to model the motion of these three celestial bodies.

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor or outdoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Body awareness
• Eye-hand coordination
• Following directions
• Social interaction

Materials

• Craft sticks
• Liquid glue
• Scissors
• Three different-sized circles for tracing: Tupperware lids, empty containers or circle templates will all work
• Construction paper: white or grey, blue, yellow
• Crayons or markers

Preparation

• Prepare the room for participants and their caregivers to complete the craft. Clear an open space for them to take turns walking around the room and modelling the motion of these three celestial bodies.

Implementation

1. Participants will begin by tracing three circles: the largest on the yellow paper (sun), the second largest on the blue paper (Earth) and the third largest on the grey or white paper (moon).

2. Then they will cut out their circles, with assistance if required.

3. Participants will decorate the circles to make them more recognizable. For example, rays on the sun, green land masses on the Earth and craters on the moon.

4. Once decorated, each paper circle will be glued to a craft stick.

5.  Now the participants can model the motion of these celestial bodies.

a.   One person will hold a sun craft and stand in the middle of the open area; they will be the centre of our solar system.

b.   A second person will take an Earth and walk around the sun in an elliptical (oval) shape.

                                     i.    If the participants are old enough, they can try spinning the Earth craft in their hands while walking to mimic a rotation. Explain to kids that it takes 24 hours, or one full day, for the Earth to complete a single “spin” or rotation. It takes 365 days to finish revolving around the sun.

c.    A third person will take a moon and walk around the Earth in an elliptical (oval) shape. Explain that the moon’s position around the Earth is what creates the different phases of the moon.

Hint: if you are outside, you can draw orbit lines out of chalk for kids to follow on the ground. If you are indoors, then you could create tape lines on the floor for kids to follow.

Accessibility Considerations

• Offer kids a variety of instruments to colour their circles and encourage them to choose what they feel most comfortable with
• Pour glue into a shallow container with large craft sticks for kids to share
• Offer tactile elements for kids to decorate their crafts
• Offer pre-cut templates
• Offer larger craft sticks

Book Suggestions

Eleanor’s Moon by Maggie Knaus

A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse by Kate Allen Fox and Khoa Le

Little Moar and the Moon by Roselynn Akulukjuk and Jazmine Gubbe

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Images

Description

Participants will create their own sensory bag, place it over a template and move the googly eyes into position on the aliens’ faces.

Read a recommended read picture book before doing the activity (optional).

Number of participants

For any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do a craft

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Development of fine motor skills
• Eye-hand coordination
• Sensory motor skills
• Spatial relationships

Materials

• Zipper sandwich bag
• Gel
• Googly eyes
• Crayons, markers or pencil crayons
• UFO sensory bag activity handout
• Pieces of cardboard the same size as or slightly larger than the activity handout (optional)
• Glitter (optional)
• Small tactile items (optional)
• Masking or duct tape (optional)
• Small tongs (optional)
• Projector and screen (optional)

Preparation

• Pre-fill sandwich bags with
  *gel
  *glitter (optional)
• Optional: select small tactile items to be used for activity in addition to the googly eyes. Ensure that the items are small enough that participants can fit a few pieces into the bag

Implementation

1. Read a recommended read picture book before doing the activity (optional)

2. Distribute

• UFO sensory bag activity handout
• sandwich bags filled with gel
• googly eyes
• crayons, markers or pencil crayons
• small tactile items (optional)
• tape (optional)

Instructions

1. Instruct participants to add googly eyes (and small tactile items) to the bag and close the bag, releasing air.

• You can tape the zipper closed to make it more secure if you like

2. Flip the googly eyes over to face forward

3. Colour in the aliens and their ships (optional)

4. Tape the handout to the cardboard and tape the bag over it (optional)

5. Place the sandwich bag on top of the handout

6. Use a finger to move the eyes over the aliens’ faces

Accessibility Considerations

• Provide filled sandwich bags with googly eyes already flipped over for those who need it or assist in flipping googly eyes during program
• Provide larger crayons and colouring tools if possible
• Consider providing small tongs for participants who may need them
• Use a projector and screen when instructing

Book Suggestions

The Book From Far Away by Bruce Handy and Julie Benbassat

The Book of Blast Off!: 15 Real-Life Space Missions by Timothy Knapman and Nik Henderson

One Giant Leap by Thao Lam

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

UFO Sensory Bag Activity - handout PDF

Images

Description

Participants will enjoy an interactive storytime, where they will work together to read a wordless picture book and then do a related activity or craft.

NOTE: This activity is designed to give libraries options so they can customize their program. There are several books and crafts/activities to choose from. We recommend choosing one wordless picture book + one craft/activity. You can also have passive activity sheets for families to take away.

Book options:

o   Blanket by Ruth Ohi

o   The Book from Far Away by Bruce Handy and Julie Benbassat

o   One Giant Leap by Thao Lam

Craft/activity options:

Crafts

• Alien Friends
• Cupcake Liner Space Creatures

Passive activity sheets

• Snapshots from space activity worksheet (One Giant Leap)
• Ruth Ohi's Blanket colouring page (Blanket)
• Open book colouring page (The Book from Far Away)

Sensory activities

• UFO Sensory Bag
• Sensory Bin
  o   Create a sensory bin with objects related to the theme of the story.
  o   Include tactile books if possible.

Number of participants

Any number of participants

Space Considerations

An indoor space where participants can be seated to do an activity

Competencies

• Creative and imaginative thinking
• Literacy
• Logic and sequencing
• Oral communication skills
• Reading comprehension

Materials

Reading the story

• Microphone
• A book to read (can order the other two for families to look at)
  o   Blanket by Ruth Ohi
  o   The Book from Far Away by Bruce Handy and Julie Benbassat
  o   One Giant Leap by Thao Lam
  
• Other wordless picture books for a book display, like
  o   Pre-readers
  * A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka
  * Lines and Wave by Suzy Lee
  * Red Sled by Lita Judge
  *Sidewalk Flowers by JonArno Lawson and Sydney Smith
  o   School age
  * Chalk and Fossil by Bill Thomson
  * The Line in the Sand, Skunk on a String, Wallpaper and The Paper Boat by Thao Lam
  * Flotsam, Mr. Wuffles! and Tuesday by David Wiesner
  

Activity/craft

Crafts

Please click on the links to access the list of materials needed for these activities.

• Alien Friends
• Cupcake Liner Space Creatures
  

Passive activity sheets

• Snapshots from space activity worksheet (One Giant Leap)
• Ruth Ohi's Blanket colouring page (Blanket)
• Open book colouring page (The Book from Far Away)
• Dialogue activity sheet
  o   Photocopy/scan a picture book spread
  o   Add speech bubbles to the characters in the book spread so participants can write dialogue
  o   Computer or laptop with access to a projector or screen for dialogue activity (optional)
• Pencils, pencil crayons, markers or crayons
• Foam stickers
• Googly eyes
• Stickers

Sensory Activities

• UFO Sensory Bag (please click on the link to access the list of materials needed)
• Sensory Bin objects
  For Blanket
  o   A small blanket
  o   Plushies
  o   Tactile books
  
  For One Giant Leap and The Book from Far Away
  o   Space-related toys (e.g., rockets, spaceships)
  o   Star- or planet-shaped objects
  o   Tactile space-related books
  o   Glow-in-the-dark stars

Preparation

• Prepare for a standard storytime with 10–15 minutes allotted for the wordless story and 15–20 minutes for the activity/craft.

Reading the story

• Reading the story
  o   Place a hold on the wordless title you will read and other wordless titles for display.
• Look through the title and write descriptions of the spreads, while generating questions for the audience.
  Suggested questions
  a) Describe a character. If the character doesn’t have a name, ask the audience what you should name it/them.
  
  b) Describe the setting and ask the audience what the character might be doing in that setting (e.g., There is a child on the beach. What is happening? What are they doing? Are they going somewhere?).
  
  c) Where is this story happening—inside or outside? Where is this place? Have you been there before? Who has visited this place before?
  
  Optional questions
  d) Shapes: What shapes do you see?
  
  e) Counting: How many _____ do you see? Let’s count them.
  
  f) Sounds: What kind of sounds do you think we can hear? What kind of sound does _____ make?
  
  g) Smells: What kind of smells can you smell? What does _____ smell like?
  
  h) Language: What would we call _____ in another language? [e.g., fish: in French (poisson), Tagalog (isda), Japanese (sakana), Spanish (pez)]
  
  i) Other aspects of the book that you can bring up to get conversations going (e.g., have any of the kids seen/experienced what is happening in the book?)

Activity/craft

Choose activity/activities and prepare accordingly.

• Print passive activity sheets.
• Prepare sensory bins.
• Set up craft station.
• Set up computer or laptop with access to a projector or screen for dialogue activity (optional)

Implementation

Reading the story

1. “Let’s read a wordless picture book together! This book does not have words, so we will look at the pictures to find out what is happening in the story. All I know from looking at the title and the cover is…”
   
2. Guide them through each spread, describing the images on the pages. “Oh, what do we see here? It looks like there are ________ and _________. There is a _________ wearing a ________.” While exploring the pages, ask them to raise their hands to answer your questions about what is on the pages, then summarize what happened before you go to the next spread. You can use the suggested and optional questions and feel free to ask follow-up questions as well.
   
3. If you find they are not really participating, start asking silly questions or make up an inaccurate storyline to get them to correct you. (e.g., Is the story happening underneath the bed or in the washroom? I’m guessing this story is about a sneezing zebra…)

Activity/craft

1. Distribute activity sheets.
2. Distribute materials.

Accessibility Considerations

Reading the story

• Use a microphone (optional).
• Use a loud voice and speak slowly.
• If possible, place hold on multiple copies of the wordless book so participants who need it can flip through the book along with you.

Activity/craft

• Offer multiple types of writing tools.
• Offer tactile materials for decorating.
• Offer large glue sticks (if needed).
• Have tactile books on hand.

Book Suggestions

Blanket by Ruth Ohi

The Book from Far Away by Bruce Handy and Julie Benbassat

One Giant Leap by Thao Lam

Download Links

Full Activity PDF

Snapshots from space activity worksheet (One Giant Leap)

Ruth Ohi’s Blanket colouring page (Blanket)

Open book colouring page (The Book from Far Away)

Alien Friends

Cupcake Liner Space Creatures

UFO Sensory Bag

Images