by Brita Johnson
Children are naturally curious about the world around them, and it can be so fun to share the magic with them - especially when that magic involves getting to wish on actual shooting stars!
The annual Perseid meteor showers begin in mid-July, peaking in mid-August and continuing for another 10 days past their peak. This year, the peak dates - during which more than one meteor per minute will streak across the northern skies - will be the early mornings of August 11, 12 and 13.
From the humorous to the scientific, here are some resources for enjoying this year’s Perseid meteor showers!
What
A quick guide to the Perseid meteor phenomenon - specific to 2020
A resource aimed at helping young children understand what they’ll be seeing
A scientific explanation for older kids in your family
Space art courtesy of E, age 4. Photo: Brita Johnson
How
From Steam Powered Family, a great nitty-gritty guide to getting out to watch the show, plus some book suggestions
More
More kid-level book suggestions from the Indianapolis Public Library
An easy meteor shower craft to do at home
Some other space-related crafts, from NASA
Explore, enjoy - and may all your wishes come true!
P.S. Here’s a humorous take on how to watch meteor showers with a toddler.