Preschool Aeronautics--Watch a Space Shuttle Launch with Your Preschooler

Learning about space and spaceflight is fun and exciting for preschoolers. A great way to introduce your preschooler to spaceflight is to watch the launch of a space shuttle together. The United States routinely launches space shuttles in an effort to help build the International Space Station. From the countdown to the launch to the shuttle docking with the space station—it is all televised for the world to see. NASA TV is available from your cable or satellite provider and is also available online via NASA.gov. Watching the launch can be a great educational experience for you and your preschooler. Here are some tips to ensure that your preschooler is able to learn from the experience.

 

Be prepared for the unexpected. Once you find out the date and time of the launch, keep it to yourself. Launches are often delayed or canceled altogether which could leave your preschooler very disappointed. Wait until the last minute to let your preschooler know that you are going to watch a launch. Also, be prepared for any unexpected events that might occur during the launch. If anything occurs that might upset your preschooler, be ready to explain or quickly turn the channel. Although disaster rarely happens, watching it on live television could upset your preschooler more than you might expect.

 

Know what you’re watching. Before you turn on the TV, study up on the NASA launch website. It gives information on the shuttle vehicle basics that will help you point to the proper parts of the shuttle while watching.

 

Make it fun. And finally, if you decide that your preschooler is ready to join in the live countdown for a space shuttle launch, have fun with it. It only lasts a few minutes and your preschooler may be disappointed once the shuttle is up in the air. Have some related games and activities ready for when the launch is over. It the launch is in the evening, have a space shuttle dinner. Make space shuttle dogs by using hotdogs. Make a space shuttle cake for dessert or have an age-appropriate space-related video ready to play.

 

 

If you are not available to watch a space shuttle launch live, the NASA.gov website and watch a previous launch.