If you’re like me, your newsfeed is FULL of news and updates about the upcoming U.S. solar eclipse on Monday, August 21st. There’s a lot of information out there, so I wanted to grab the “best of the best” for all of you to peruse quickly before Monday.
We like to use major events like these to pique our girls’ interest in new ideas (like the solar system!) and go deeper in our learning while interest is high.
What is a solar eclipse, and why is it such a big deal?
This video from SciShow Kids explains it perfectly!
How can I watch it (safely)?
If you live in this zone, you’ll be able to see some or all of the eclipse in your own yard!
Source: NASA
If you’re not able to see it outside, be sure to check out this live stream!
Know the Risks, Don’t Peek!
Note: Some scientists are disputing Dr. Schecter’s post, so use caution and make the best decision for your family.
Helpful Idea to Try with Kids:
Other Ways to Watch the Solar Eclipse:
- Make a pinhole projector.
- Make a cereal box viewer.
- Make a pinhole viewer.
- Make a diaper box viewer (or use a similarly-sized box!).
More Solar Eclipse Activities:
If your kids are like mine, they will likely be talking about the eclipse for days (or weeks!). Take advantage of their excitement to learn more about the sun AND take some time to preserve their memories of the day.
- 2017 Solar Eclipse Kid’s Questionnaire
- Mystery Science FREE Lesson
- Inspiration Laboratories has a FUN activity for kinesthetic and visual learners!
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Book Recommendations:
My girls LOVE to read, so I always try to have a few non-fiction books available about the topic we’re studying. Visit your local library, or add a few new books to your collection. We have not found many eclipse-specific books, but are using the experience to learn more about the solar system in general. I recommend these five great books:
Technically not a book, but a box of information cards.
Additional Resources:
- NASA has set up a homeschool section on their solar eclipse website, including family activities and lesson plans for all ages.
- I will continue to update this post as new resources become available!
