Space. The final frontier. Since the beginning of human civilization, we’ve gazed up at the stars and dreamed of exploring the great unknown. For kids, space represents adventure, mystery, and infinite possibilities.
Space toys allow children to act out their interstellar dreams right here on Earth. From model rockets to alien action figures, space toys spark curiosity about astronomy, technology, and the cosmos. They encourage imagination, problem-solving skills, and an early interest in science.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore the wonderful world of space toys for kids. You’ll discover the benefits of space toys, types of space toys available, factors to consider when choosing toys, and our top picks of stellar space toys your kids are sure to love. 3…2…1…blast off!
Why Space Toys Are Great for Kids
Space toys encourage creativity and imagination.
Kids can make up endless space adventures with toys like astronaut figures, spaceships, and playsets. Acting out stories about exploring alien planets or zooming through the solar system boosts their creative thinking.
Space toys enhance cognitive development.
Assembling model rockets and spacecraft involves following step-by-step instructions. Working through the engineering challenges of space toys develops spatial intelligence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Space toys promote STEM learning.
Playing with space-themed construction sets, science kits, and programmable robots exposes kids to important STEM concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Space toys develop social skills.
Playing cooperatively with space-themed toys teaches kids teamwork and communication skills. They learn to share responsibility, work collaboratively to solve problems, and take turns.
In short, space toys inspire the imagination while preparing kids for success in our 21st century world. Kids gain so much more than fun from playtime with educational space toys.
Major Types of Space Toys
The space toy universe contains a diverse assortment of cosmic toys kids will love. Here are some of the most popular categories:
Astronaut Figures and Toys
Every space mission needs a brave astronaut! Kids can recreate historical missions or imagine their own with astronaut action figures, dresses-up costumes, and playsets. Popular themes include NASA astronauts, Lego City Space figures, and Star Wars characters.
Rockets and Spacecraft
Blast off into outer space with model rockets, space shuttles, and alien UFO spacecraft! Kids learn about real rocket designs as they assemble, paint, and launch their own models. Glow-in-the-dark and snap together rockets make spacecraft accessible for younger kids.
Space-Themed Building Toys
Lego has an entire galaxy of space-themed building kits featuring spaceships, orbital outposts, Mars rovers, and alien creatures. Other building block sets let kids construct the solar system, lunar landers, and space stations piece by piece.
Robots and Space Vehicles
Kids can take interplanetary road trips with remote control or ride-on space vehicles! Programmable robots teach coding skills for completing space missions. With so many interactive space toys, the cosmos becomes a hands-on adventure.
Science Kits and Planetariums
Budding astrophysicists explore the mysteries of the universe with telescopes, rock collections, planetarium projections, and hands-on science experiments. With space science toys, kids learn astronomy concepts from the comfort of their own homes.
Puzzles, Games, and Arts and Crafts
Solar system jigsaw puzzles, astronaut dress-up costumes, and space-themed arts and crafts encourage kids to use their creativity and imagination to explore space topics. There are even stellar board games teaching facts about space missions, the planets, and constellations.
Key Factors When Choosing Space Toys
With so many light years worth of space toys out there, how do you choose the best space toys for your kids? Here are the top factors to consider:
Age – Match toys to your child’s age and developmental level. For example, complex Lego space kits are better for older kids, while toddlers would enjoy soft astronaut toys.
Safety – Ensure toys contain no small pieces that could pose a choking hazard for younger kids. Model rockets and chemistry kits require adult supervision.
Education – Look for toys marked STEM or that teach science concepts like astronomy, engineering, robotics, and coding.
Skill development – Toys that encourage problem-solving, motor skills, imagination, and creativity have the most play value.
Child’s interests – Spark their passion by choosing space toys related to what already interests them – astronomy, spaceships, alien lifeforms, Star Wars, etc.
Budget – You can find space toys at a range of budget-friendly price points. Focus on quality over quantity.
Reviews – Check parent reviews on sites like Amazon to learn the pros and cons before purchasing.
No matter which stellar space toys make your final lineup, the important thing is choosing toys that engage your children’s interests and provide a universe of open-ended play possibilities.
Top Space Toys for Kids of All Ages
Now that it’s time to blast off on a space toy shopping mission, here is our handpicked list of the very best space toys for kids of all ages:
Best Astronaut Toys
Fisher Price Little People NASA Set – $15
This budget-friendly playset includes a NASA rocket and launch pad, astronaut figures, a Mars space rover, and space shuttle for imaginative play. A great intro space set for toddlers.
LEGO City Mars Research Shuttle – $40
Kids build an awesome Mars rover expedition with this 673 piece Lego set complete with shuttle, vehicles, robot arm, and 4 space minifigures. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Playmobil Mission Rocket – $100
The detailed Mission Rocket playset allows kids to recreate Apollo moon missions with lights, sounds, and a functional launch platform. Includes 3 astronaut figures with accessories. Best for ages 7 and up.
Best Rocket Toys
Estes Alpha III Rocket Kit – $22
Blast off into rocketry with the included rocket, launch pad, engines, and assembly instructions. This entry-level rocket stands 18″ tall and is a great STEM activity for kids 10+.
Snap Circuits Arcade Rocket Science Kit – $25
Kids ages 8+ learn electronics and rocket science concepts by building light-up rockets with 100+ Snap Circuits. A great way to develop STEM skills.
UFO Drones Galaxy Fighter – $70
This stellar remote-control flyer actually hovers like a UFO! Kids master control over 360 degree movement while learning the principles of aerodynamics and propulsion.
Best Spacecraft and Vehicle Toys
Crayola Light Up Tracing Spacecraft – $25
Budding artists ages 6+ can trace cool spacecraft images that are illuminated from within this tracing toy. Boosts creativity and art skills.
GeoSafari Vega Planetary Cruiser – $45
Kids pilot this friction-powered space rover to explore indoor or outdoor planets. Makes a great gift for active kids ages 4-8.
Osmo Coding Starter Kit – $80
Kids learn coding skills by connecting interstellar command blocks to navigate their on-screen spaceship through space adventures. Includes hands-on programming tools.
Best Building Kits
Construkt Building Blocks STEM Kit – $25
This beginner STEM kit includes 108 Construkt building blocks, wheels, and windows to build a space station, vehicles, robots, and more. Best for ages 3-6.
LEGO Ideas International Space Station – $70
An 864 piece kit challenges advanced builders 10+ to construct a highly detailed International Space Station with Hubble telescope, spacecraft, and cargo vehicles that really float in space!
KiwiCo StarStruck Planetarium Kit – $25/month
With this monthly science subscription, kids build a new glowing planetarium model each month to learn fascinating facts about the planets and space. Recommended for ages 14+.
Best Games and Puzzles
Stephen Hawking 3D Solar System Puzzle – $35
Kids assemble this glow-in-the-dark 195 piece 3D puzzle to learn the scale distances between each planet and the sun. A fun family activity.
Space Race Game – $16
In this fast-paced card game for 2-4 players ages 8+, kids compete to assemble the best rocket ship. An engaging family game night choice with an space theme.
ThinkFun Laser Maze Space Challenge – $20
Using logic and problem-solving, kids navigate through a laser grid maze on this light-up space themed game board. Includes beginner and advanced challenges.
Engaging Kids with Space Toys
The secret to encouraging kids to play with educational space toys is making it as fun and engaging as possible. Here are some stellar ideas:
- Set up a space-themed play area using dark fabrics, stars, planets, rocket ships, and other decor. This galactic zone sparks creative adventures.
- Incorporate space toys into everyday learning like playing with flashcards while traveling in a cardboard spaceship.
- Roleplay space missions together dressing up like astronauts and acting out repairs on a “broken” rocketship.
- Read fiction and nonfiction books about space to provide background knowledge for a richer play.
- Watch age-appropriate space movies together then reenact key scenes with toys.
- Allow unstructured playtime for them to use their imagination inventing silly space characters and make-believe planets.
The whole family can join in on space playtime too! Have an intergalactic adventure night with space snacks, games, crafts, and toys for quality time spent exploring the cosmos.
To Infinity and Beyond!
Blast off into a universe of learning and imagination with incredible space toys for kids! From model rockets to alien action figures, space toys teach STEM concepts, problem-solving, and social skills in the most engaging way possible – through play.
Use this guide to choose space toys tailored to your child’s interests, abilities, and passions. Let their imagination soar while building a lifelong love for science and space. The educational toy possibilities are endless in this playroom galaxy!
With the right space toys, your kids’ own bedrooms can transform into their very own starship playground. Let their interest in space take flight. To infinity – and beyond!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of space toys for kids?
Space toys provide many benefits for kids including enhancing creativity, developing STEM skills, and promoting cognitive growth through interactive play. Assembling model rockets improves critical thinking, while programming a space robot teaches coding skills. Best of all, space toys spark an early interest and love for space science concepts.
What types of space toys are good for younger kids?
Look for space toys marked for toddlers and preschoolers like soft astronaut figurines, solar system puzzles, and snap-together rockets. Avoid any small pieces that could pose a choking hazard. Stick with toys that encourage imagination and open-ended play.
What are the best educational space toys?
Top educational picks include science experiment kits, telescopes, planetarium projectors, STEM building sets, and programmable space robots. Toys that teach critical thinking, astronomy facts, and coding are great for learning. Check toy reviews to confirm educational value.
How can I choose the best space toys on a budget?
Fortunately, stellar space toys exist at every price point. Look for sales and deals on larger sets. Simple rocket kits, astronaut dress-up clothes, and glow-in-the-dark solar system models make budget-friendly choices. Focus on a few toys that will inspire repeated play.
How do I encourage my kids to play with space toys?
Make space playtime fun by setting up a galactic play zone in their room. Roleplay space adventures together. Do hands-on science experiments and watch space movies. Give them unstructured time to use their huge imaginations. Engaging kids in space play ensures they get the most value from space toys.