Our free constellation playdough mats will introduce your kids to the wonders of the night sky. These playdough mats are designed for curious minds and busy hands, offering a hands-on journey through fascinating constellations. Let’s dive into the stars together and create with playdough while exploring the mysteries of the stars! These make a fantastic addition to any space activity theme.
Who Can Use Playdough Mats?
Constellation playdough mats are perfect for kids eager to discover the wonders of the night sky in a fun and interactive way. They’re ideally suited for preschoolers and early elementary school-aged kids curious about space and enjoy hands-on activities.
Our playdough mats offer a multisensory experience, combining tactile play with learning about the constellations. Whether your kid is a budding astronomer or loves to create with playdough, this constellation activity provides an engaging opportunity to learn more about the stars in the sky.
How to Use Constellation Playdough Mats
Supplies:
- Printable constellation playdough mats
- Playdough in various colors
- Page protectors or laminators
- Dry erase markers
Tip: Kids can use dry-erase markers to draw the constellations instead of using playdough or do both!
Instructions:
STEP 1: Download and print your free playdough mats below!
STEP 2: Place each playdough mat in a page protector or laminate for long-lasting use.
STEP 3: Add playdough! Make your own or use store-bought.
Free Printable Constellation Playdough Mats
Examples of Constellations
Constellations are incredibly fun for kids because they offer a peak into astronomy’s vast and mysterious realm. For kids, connecting the dots in the night sky to form recognizable shapes sparks their sense of wonder.
Each constellation carries its unique story from mythology or astronomy, allowing kids to explore ancient tales and connect them to the stars above. Additionally, learning about constellations introduces kids to astronomical concepts such as star patterns, celestial navigation, and the vastness of the universe.
Also, make sure to grab our Free Space Playdough Mats!
Andromeda (Princess Andromeda)
This constellation hosts the Andromeda Galaxy, the closest spiral galaxy to the Milky Way. Leo, The Lion: One of the zodiac constellations, Leo resembles a crouching lion with a distinctive backward question mark shape known as the “Sickle.”
Canis Major, the Greater Dog
Canis Major is home to the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius, also known as the Dog Star. Orion, the Hunter: A prominent winter constellation, Orion features the famous Orion’s Belt, a line of three bright stars in a row.
Seasonal Constellations
Some constellations are visible in the northern or southern hemispheres, depending on the time of year. This is due to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. As the Earth orbits, its axial tilt causes different parts of the sky to be visible from each hemisphere. For example, during winter in the northern hemisphere, constellations like Orion and Taurus dominate the night sky. Meanwhile, in the southern hemisphere, they are obscured by daylight.
On the other hand, during winter in the southern hemisphere, constellations like Crux and Centaurus are prominent, while they are not visible in the northern hemisphere. This phenomenon creates a dynamic celestial landscape, offering unique viewing opportunities throughout the year in both hemispheres.
Constellation Books for Kids
These are Amazon affiliate links.
“Star Stories” by Anita Ganeri – Delve into the enchanting tales behind the constellations as you journey through ancient myths and legends associated with the stars.
“Constellations for Kids: An Easy Guide to Discovering the Stars” by Zachary Hughes – Navigate the night sky with ease using this accessible guide, designed to introduce young readers to the wonders of constellations through simple explanations and vibrant illustrations.
“Sky Gazing: A Guide to the Moon, Sun, Planets, Stars, Eclipses, and Constellations” by Laura Knight-Jadczyk – Embark on a comprehensive journey through the cosmos, from the phases of the moon to the constellations above, with this informative guide perfect for budding astronomers of all ages.
More Fun Constellation Activities For Kids
- Constellation Cards
- Star Life Cycle
- Star Magic Science
- Galaxy Jar
- Galaxy Watercolor Activity
- DIY Planetarium
How To Make Playdough
Make your own playdough! Try one of our homemade playdough recipes, including the easiest no cook playdough recipe!
Check it out: Free Playdough Mats for Kids
Beyond its entertainment value, playdough also offers many educational benefits. Kids manipulate the dough and develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. They learn about texture, shape, and form as they mold and shape it into various objects.
Additionally, playdough play encourages language development and social interaction as children describe their creations, negotiate roles in pretend play scenarios, and collaborate with peers.
Try These Space Theme Activities
View our entire collection of Space Activities for kids here.
- Space Sensory Bin
- Space Pattern Blocks
- LEGO Space Challenges
- Oreo Moon Phases
- Moon Rocks
- Fizzy Moon Paint
Printable Playdough Project Pack
With tons of easy-to-print recipes and exclusive playdough mats that encourage early learning, look forward to a year of sensory-rich play!
- Homemade Playdough Recipes including traditional, no-cook, super soft, and even taste-safe ideas!
- Playdough Mats with an Early Learning Theme, including space, seasons, volcanos, bees, ABCs, 123s, shapes, weather, insects, plants, and more!
- Playdough tips, tricks, and ideas!
