Objective

By the end of this lesson, Vaeda will be able to identify and name the planets in our solar system while having fun with a solar system puzzle. She will learn about the order of the planets and some interesting facts about each one!

Materials and Prep

• Solar system puzzle (if available, or a drawing of the solar system)
• Crayons or markers (for drawing)
• Space-themed stickers (optional for added fun)
• Knowledge of the order of the planets from the sun

Activities

• Planet Puzzle Time:

  Start by working on the solar system puzzle together. Help Vaeda fit the pieces together and talk about each planet as you go. Ask her questions about what she sees!

• Draw Your Own Solar System:

  After completing the puzzle, have Vaeda draw her own version of the solar system. Encourage her to use different colors for each planet and add the sun!

• Planet Dance:

  Turn on some music and have a "Planet Dance." Each time a planet is called out, Vaeda can dance like that planet. For example, she can spin like Mercury or sway like Jupiter!

• Story Time:

  Read a short story or make up a fun story about a journey through the solar system. Include all the planets and what they might say if they could talk!

Talking Points

• "Do you know that the sun is a big ball of fire? It's the center of our solar system!"
• "Can you name the planets? Let's say them together: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune!"
• "Look at the colors of the planets! Which one is your favorite? Why?"
• "Did you know that Jupiter is the biggest planet? It's like a giant in our solar system!"