Eclipse Resources for Kids
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You may have heard that the United States will see an eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017.
People seem to be very excited about this solar event. They are making plans to travel so they will be in prime viewing spots around the country. Everyone in the United States will be able to see at least a partial eclipse, even if you are not in the path of totality.
Solar eclipses do not happen often. The last one to pass over the US was in 1918 and the next will be in 2024.
Take advantage of this rare opportunity and teach a little astronomy!
Eclipse Resources for Kids
Pick and choose the best eclipse resources for your family.
Viewing Glasses
If you only do one thing to prepare for the eclipse, it should be getting eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes.
Starring directly at the sun is not good for eyes. It can actually burn your eyes. Ouch!
Looking away will be tough to do during this solar event. Many libraries are planning to give away glasses. My husband bought a pack of glasses in case our library runs out. We have actually had these glasses for the past month because he was worried that even Amazon might sell out. Can you tell he is excited?
Hannah and Ben tested these glasses out and found them to be an effective way to see the sun without hurting their eyes.
Ted-Ed Video
Ted-Ed is one of our favorite resources for pretty much every subject. Have you ever heard of Ted Talks? Ted-Ed is a division of the popular Ted Talks that is geared towards children’s education.
The videos are factual, animated, and fairly short. Science minded children will probably love this site. Ben and Hannah watch it daily.
They have a great child friendly explanation of the eclipse. If your kids only watch one video about the eclipse, this is the one I recommend.
Crafts
Coffee Filter Craft – I love this eclipse craft for kids because it is simple and doesn’t require many supplies. I bet you already have everything you need. This craft is easy enough for even young toddlers to manage.
Make a Pinhole Camera – This pinhole camera guide walks you through every step of creating a safe way to view the eclipse. I recommend purchasing glasses, but this is a good option for kids that won’t keep glasses on.
Chalk Eclipse Art – This chalk eclipse art would be a cute way to remember the eclipse. After the chalk art is complete, spray hairspray. This will help the chalk set and keep it from brushing off. This would be a cute piece of art to make for a memory box.
Books
The Big Eclipse by Nancy Coffelt This cute comic book follows several animal characters as they follow the path of the 2017 solar eclipse. It is also available as a digital book.
Last update on 2026-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2026-09-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Any special plans for the eclipse? I think it would make the setting of an unforgettable picnic!
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