Is your classroom filled with space explorers? Try this Planet Matching Activity, which is a fun activity for preschoolers. This activity comes with a free printable which you can use to create a small solar system in your science center.
Adult supervision is required for all activities at all times. Some of the links provided in this blog are affiliate links. I will be paid a commission if you use this link to make a purchase.
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More Outer Space Play Ideas for Kids
Here are some more space themed play activities for toddlers and preschoolers. Learn all about the solar system with these fun ideas.
- Space Silhouette Art for Kids
- Space Sensory Bin
- Space Lacing Cards (Free Printable)
- Outer Space Yoga Poses
- Alien Planet Sensory Painting
For more ideas, check out all of our Space Activities for Kids
Materials Needed
How to Make the Planet Match Activity
1. Download and print the free printable.
You can find the free pdf files below. Just head to the bottom of the post and click the large blue button to get your copy.
2. Make the Celestial Bodies
Cut out each of the planets, moon and sun (I also included Pluto but you can leave it out if you prefer). Then either:
a. Glue them onto some pebbles using mod podge or,
b. Laminate the pictures.
I decided to glue my planets onto a set of pebbles. I did this purely so that my kids would have something different to play with. I like to try mixing it up instead of giving them paper based activities all the time.
However, if this doesn’t suit you, then just laminate the pictures instead. This will still make them sturdy, but they’ll also be easy to pack away for another day because they’re still flat.
3. Make the Matching Sheet
Laminate the solar system sheet. This is the one which has the planets in order and a small white dotted line down the middle.
Then cut the sheet in half and use sticky tape to make a single long line of planets.
How to Play
Playing is so easy. All the kids need to do is take the pebbles out of the container and place them on top of the same planet on the printable. Easy right?
While the kids are doing this activity, it’s a great time to talk about the different planets. How they look, what they’re made of and also how far they are from the sun.
Are you going to try this Planet Match Activity with your kids?
Don’t forget to pin the idea for later
Print the Instructions
Planet Match Activity
Grab your copy of this free printable planet match activity and learn all about the solar system.
This is a simple STEM activity that is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love outer space.
Materials
- The free Space Printable found below.
- A laminating machine and laminating sheets
- Pebbles
- Mod Podge
- A paintbrush
Instructions
- Download and print the free printable for kids at the end of the instructions.
- Cut out each of the planets, moon and sun and glue them onto the pebbles.
- Laminate the solar system sheet, which has the planets in order. Then cut the sheet in half and use sticky tape to make a single long line of planets.
Notes
How to Play
Playing is so easy. All the kids need to do is take the pebbles out of the container and place them on top of the same planet on the printable.
