Solar Eclipse with Kids

Eclipses have intrigued humans for centuries, casting a captivating shadow in the sky. These celestial events, involving either the sun or the moon, reveal the choreography among the universe. Let’s dive into the world of solar eclipses.

A solar eclipse is a breathtaking occurrence that happens when the moon positions itself between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow upon our planet. While from our vantage point, the sun and moon may seem similar in size, the reality is that the sun is approximately 400 times larger than the moon. This size difference plays a pivotal role in the fascinating spectacle of a solar eclipse.

Although one might assume that eclipses would be a monthly event given the moon's 29.5-day cycle, they are, in fact, relatively rare. The key to this rarity lies in the moon's orbital tilt. The moon's orbit is tilted at an angle of approximately 5 degrees in relation to Earth's orbit around the sun. Eclipses occur when the moon's orbit aligns with Earth's orbital plane, a phenomenon referred to as a "Node." This alignment allows the moon's shadow to cross the Earth's surface, resulting in an eclipse. Solar eclipses often pair with lunar eclipses, creating a fascinating celestial symmetry.

Keep an eye out for any noticeable changes in your surroundings. The lighting change has been reported to show viewers extraordinary things, such as, lighting that resembles sunrise/sunset colors on the horizon! Here are some other suggestions of what to observe during an eclipse.

• Animal Behavior: Pay close attention to the behavior of animals around you. Some animals may exhibit unusual actions in response to the effects of the eclipse. 
• Plant Reactions: Observe the plants around you. During an eclipse, some plants may close their leaves as if it were nighttime.
• Starry Night: When darkness falls during a solar eclipse, you'll be treated to the sight of some of the brightest stars in the sky, typically obscured by daylight. In some cases, you can actually spot planets near the sun during the eclipse!
• Shadow Play: Notice the intriguing patterns created by leaves' shadows. The eclipse's unique lighting conditions can cast extraordinary and mesmerizing shadows.

Protecting your eyes during an eclipse is vital due to the sun's intense light. When you look at the sun without proper eye protection, you could damage the cells in your retinas. This can result in vision impairment or even blindness. Even during a partial eclipse, the remaining sunlight remains harmful to your eyes. Therefore, using appropriate eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar filters, is essential to safeguard your eyes and enjoy the eclipse safely.

An alternative method to view a solar eclipse with kids is a pinhole projection. Poke a tiny hole into the center of a paper plate or piece of cardstock. You can hold up your pinhole projector against the sun and project the solar image onto a nearby surface such as a second plate or paper.

Another way you can see these shadows is to help the sun pass through a bunch of small holes. For instance, create a waffle pattern by crossing the slightly open fingers of one hand over the slightly open fingers of the other while facing away from the Sun. Look at the shadow of your hands on the ground; the small spaces between your fingers will project a grid of images, depicting the Sun as a crescent during partial solar eclipses or as a ring during annular ones.

Alternatively, observe the shadow of a leafy tree during a partial or annular eclipse, and you’ll witness the ground covered in crescent or ring-shaped Suns projected by the gaps between the leaves.

Protective Eyewear: Always wear special eclipse glasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient for this purpose. If you have tools like binoculars or telescopes, make sure to use proper solar filters to observe the eclipse safely. Be sure to buy filters and glasses from trusted sources!

Timing is Crucial: Look up the eclipse’s scheduled time for your location, then make your plans. The eclipse will last about 2 hours from beginning to end, but the annularity will only last about 5-6 minutes.

Check out NASA’s website for a map and more information! 

Open Space: Position yourself outdoors where you have a clear view of the eastern horizon, ensuring you can see the sun for the eclipse.

Eclipses are gradual events. Take the time to watch and appreciate the phenomenon of the sun and moon during the eclipse. By understanding the science behind these events and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of eclipses.

• Grab our free Solar Eclipse mini book for a fun, educational way to learn about the solar eclipse with kids.
• A fun family activity is to create pinhole projectors. Start with paper plates. Allow the kids to decorate them, and then, in the center, make a hole using a small nail (typically used for picture hanging), although a thumb tack or push pin will also work. During the eclipse, you can project the sun onto another plate or a piece of paper. You can even practice with it beforehand.
• Buy your family some plain glasses and decorate them using sharpies. Then try them on and practice safely looking at the sun!
• Talk about how the sun and the moon are going to look like they are about the same size! But the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun. What does 400 times smaller even mean? And why do they look like the same size from Earth? Do a small activity explaining this concept using a small ball (like a golf ball) and a big ball (like a soccer ball). While putting some space between you and the big ball, move the small ball in front of your face covering up the big ball. Why do they seem to be the same size? How does distance affect how the sizes look?
• Check out the NASA website for more fun activities to prepare for the Annular Solar Eclipse with kids!

A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely blocks the sun from Earth’s view. This creates a moment of darkness upon the earth in the path of totality. There will even be stars and planets visible!

The total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024. Listed below are only a few of the cities that will get an awesome view of the totality.

To get your hands on our 2024 Solar Eclipse Mini Book perfect for learning and observing the solar eclipse with kids, simply download it using the button below. For immediate access, subscribe to our newsletter by filling out the form provided. As a new subscriber, we will occasionally sprinkle your inbox with other fun family ideas, along with complimentary printables that have been released! Already subscribed? Just enter your email address below and click download without worries of being 'resubscribed' or receiving additional emails.

According to NASA, the eclipse will be at annularity in these cities at these times.