Lonely Planet Kids How to be a Space Explorer 1: Your Out-of-this-World Adventure
#1 in Lonely Planet Kids Series
What’s inside...
This book provides everything young explorers need to know about traveling in space, including life in zero gravity, navigating the solar system, and how to pee in a spacesuit. It features unique illustrations and over 300 incredible photos that capture the essence of the universe. Written by Professor Mark Brake, an astrobiologist, the book offers incredible stories of real-life space exploration suitable for kids aged 8 and up. Published by Lonely Planet, a leading travel guide publisher since 1973, this book is perfect for every aspiring astronaut and encourages curious travelers to experience the world.
Discussion points
What would you pack for a trip to space and why?
If you could meet an alien, what would you ask them and why?
How do you think exploring space can help us learn more about Earth?
Which planet would you like to visit most and what do you think you would see there?
How do you imagine daily life as an astronaut aboard a space station?
Tip: Role play these questions
To stimulate curiosity and deepen your child’s understanding, relate the book’s space exploration themes to their everyday experiences. Ask them to compare their daily routine to what they think an astronaut's day might be like. Encourage them to imagine and describe possible alien worlds, focusing on the sensory details like sight, sound, and texture. This can help them connect more personally with the content of the book. Lastly, use the answers to these questions to introduce related topics or further reading materials to keep the exploration going.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book encourages young readers to explore the vastness of space, teaching them about different planets, stars, and the technology used in space exploration.
Real-World Application: Fosters a love for science and exploration which can inspire children to learn more about the world around them and to ask questions about how things work.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: As readers journey through space, they learn about the importance of working together with astronauts and scientists, highlighting how collaboration is crucial in space missions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, a skill that is vital in school projects and later in their careers.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book presents various challenges that astronauts face while exploring space, encouraging readers to think about creative solutions.
Real-World Application: Enhances critical thinking and decision-making skills as children are encouraged to think about solutions to problems they encounter in daily life.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Stories of space exploration often involve overcoming obstacles and setbacks. The book illustrates how astronauts must persevere through difficulties.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming their own challenges, whether in their studies, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: By exploring other planets, the book highlights the uniqueness and fragility of Earth, promoting a message of taking care of our planet.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be conscious of their environmental impact and fosters a sense of responsibility towards Earth.