As part of our Reggio-inspired pedagogy, we have been following the children’s interest in outer space. Our investigation started when an individual had questions about asteroids. Their curiosity sparked a chain reaction of interest, which led to more group discussions about our solar system. Throughout numerous conversations, children have been able to refine and extend their thinking about the planets, stars, moon and sun. The children enjoyed participating in a range of art opportunities based on this interest such as making a collage of Earth, making the moon and its craters out of clay, and drawing their favourite planet.

Following the children’s lead, we soon discovered that they were interested in rockets and the International Space Station. We watched clips on rockets launching and studied the different types. We soon learnt that some carry astronauts, while others only take satellites up into Earth’s orbit. After making number and tangram rockets, a student suggested we create a Loch Rannoch rocket. In our hui times, we talked about what materials we may need and its ideal shape. We collectively gathered recycled materials from our homes and worked together to build our rocket ship. We decorated the boxes in tin foil, used cups to make lights, and fastened gold lids for the windows.

We also posed a question to the children: “If you were an astronaut in a rocket, what would you see?” The thought-provoking answers included: other rockets, Saturn, aliens, stars, the flag on the moon, the sun, astronauts floating, satellites, asteroids, and planets. Using a template depicting a window, the children were invited to express their ideas through drawings. Subsequently, we are in the process of making individual dioramas showcasing their thoughts through various mediums, making their ideas three-dimensional.

Our children have shown great interest in the wider world and we are excited to keep investigating to see where our space journey takes us. We are sure our upcoming trip to the Stardome Observatory will ignite many more working theories and discussions. This investigation has encouraged the children to think about outer space on a deeper level and take on board others’ perspectives, as well as visually comprehend their ideas.

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