Create a Night Sky

Inspired by Wonderverse, create a magical night sky on the ceiling using simple household objects.

Wonderverse

You will need


A torch and some objects with shiny, reflective surfaces, perhaps a small mirror, foil, a colander, sieve or a saucepan.

 

How to


Encourage everyone to lie comfortably on the ground and turn the lights off (it’s ok if there is natural light coming into the room).

Choose two people to create the night sky – one person holding the torch, and the other holding the shiny object. Point the torch at the object and up to the ceiling.

  • What light and shadows appear?

  • What happens when you slowly move the torch? Or move the shiny object?

  • Can you all trace the light and shadow in the air with your finger?

  • Take turns using the light, and lying down watching.

  • You could play some gentle music or sounds from nature, or introduce a prism to add a rainbow to the scene.

  • You might like to sing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star together to finish the experience.

 

Discuss

  • Has anyone looked up at the stars at night?

    Encourage children to describe the scene – were they lying on the ground, or sitting around a campfire? Or driving home late, looking out the car window? What did they see? What did it sound like? Was it warm or cold? How did it make them feel?

Curriculum Links

EYLF Learning Outcomes 1 2 4 5

1 Children have a strong sense of identity
2 Children are connected with and contribute to their world
3 Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
4 Children are confident and involved learners
5 Children are effective communicators

Primary Learning Areas

English, Science, Humanities & Social Sciences

General Capabilities

Critical and Creative Thinking

More activities to try

Home Poem Read A Bedtime Story written by Sally Hardy, then write your own poem!
Try It
Shadow Tableaux Create shadow tableaux in groups, capturing scenes and exploring relationships.
Try It
Wonderverse Visual Story A resource designed to help teachers and parents prepare children for their visit to Wonderverse.
Try It