The Educators' Spin On It

Learning Games and Activities

By

Solar Eclipse Videos and Activities for Kids

Explore the ultimate resource of Solar Eclipse Videos and Activities for Kids! A collection of videos, activities, books, songs, and teaching materials to learn all about a Solar Eclipse with your child.

Solar Eclipse Resources for Kids. Includes videos, books, activities, resources and more for kids of all ages to learn about solar eclipses.

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Solar Eclipse Videos and Activities for Kids

We’re sharing with you our favorite videos, books, activities, songs, and resources so you can learn all about a solar eclipse. Are you ready to become a scientist?

In 2024, the path of totality, where the Sun is completely covered by the Moon, will pass through parts of North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light. This can only happen during a new moon when the Sun does not illuminate the side of the Moon facing Earth.

Here are some helpful maps of the US from NASA that show the path of this upcoming Solar Eclipse.

There are three types of solar eclipses:

  • Total solar eclipse: The Moon completely blocks the Sun’s light, creating a shadow on Earth. This type of eclipse is only visible from a narrow path on Earth.
  • Partial solar eclipse: The Moon only partially blocks the Sun’s light, creating a shadow smaller than the Sun’s disk. This type of eclipse is visible from a larger area of Earth.
  • Annular solar eclipse: The Moon passes directly in front of the Sun, but it is too small to block the Sun’s light completely. This creates a ring of light around the Moon, called an annulus. Annular eclipses are only visible from a narrow path on Earth.

Solar eclipses are a rare and beautiful sight. They can be dangerous to look at directly, so it is important to use special solar eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector to view them safely.

Here are some helpful tips from NASA about Eye Safety during a Solar Eclipse. (Look for the words ISO-12312-2 when you’re purchasing the correct glasses)

NASA shares some helpful information about Why We Observe Solar Eclipses.

You can Enter your zip code and discover how the 2024 total solar eclipse will look in your city.

Solar Eclipse Videos for Kids

Solar Eclipse Videos

I’ve put together a collection of solar eclipse videos for kids I believe as a teacher and a mom are appropriate for the kid to watch online. I’d encourage you to discuss these as a family or classroom to expand their knowledge.

Solar Eclipse | The Dr. Binocs Show

What is a Solar Eclipse | NASA Space Place

Solar Eclipse 101 | National Geographic

Why the 2024 Solar Eclipse is Such a Big Deal | PBS

2024 Total Solar Eclipse: Why You’ll Never See It Again | CBC News

https://youtu.be/IXhybbX6Iws?si=o85M4kGEaPyf-cys

Solar Eclipse | BrainPOP

Eclipses for kids | Smile and Learn

How an Eclipse Proved Einstein Right

How the International Space Station viewed the 2024 total eclipse

For older kids and families, you can watch this NOVA video together.

Great American Eclipse | Full Documentary | NOVA | PBS

Watch this video too: April 8, 2024, Total Solar Eclipse: Here’s what you need to know -Smarter Every Day 295.

Want to know what you’ll see in your State? Watch this video.

Here’s a really helpful PowerPoint about Solar Eclipses for kids from GBH and PBS.

How an Eclipse Proved Einstein Right | NOVA

Solar Eclipse Activities for Kids

Solar Eclipse Activities

Observing a solar eclipse is a once in a lifetime experience. There are many creative ways to learn about a solar eclipse with hands-on activities. Here are our top picks for solar eclipse activities for kids.

Which solar eclipse activity will you do first?

Solar Energy Experiments for Kids to explore!
Close up of Moon Bread Recipe and Astronaut Toy
Earth Floor Puzzle to Learn about the Solar System with Kids

Fun Facts About Solar Eclipses for Kids

  • A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking the Sun’s light.
  • The darkest part of the eclipse is called the umbra, and it’s where the Moon completely blocks the Sun.
  • The lighter part of the eclipse is called the penumbra, and it’s where the Moon partially blocks the Sun.
  • Solar eclipses can only be seen from certain parts of the Earth.
  • The next total solar eclipse visible in the United States will be in April 2024.
  • During a solar eclipse, it is very important to wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the Sun’s harmful rays.
  • Animals often behave strangely during solar eclipses. For example, birds may stop singing and cows may lie down.
  • Solar eclipses have been happening for billions of years.
  • The first recorded solar eclipse was observed in China in 2134 BC.
  • Solar eclipses are a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the beauty of nature.

Which solar eclipse fact surprised you the most?

Here’s a list of Solar Eclipses from 2021 to 2030 from NASA.

Solar Eclipse Books for Kids

Solar Eclipse Books

colander during solar eclipse experiment

Solar Eclipse Teaching Materials

There are so many fun ways to create models of a solar eclipse. Here are a few of my favorite teaching materials to have on display and utilize with young children. They are a great addition to our Space STEM Camp too.

Earth Moon Sun Orrery Building Set
Rotating Solar System Projector with Earth, Moon and Sun
Solar System Model Earth, Moon and Sun Rotating

Solar Eclipse Songs for kids

Here are a few songs about the solar eclipse for your child to enjoy and share with others.

Are you ready to see the Solar Eclipse? Even if you’re not in the path of totality, you can still see a partial eclipse from other parts of the world. It’s an exciting event that brings people together to marvel at the wonders of our universe!

You may also enjoy these activities for kids…

140+ STEM Camp Activities for kids this summer. STEM Themed Activities, Books and Educational Toys for 10 Different Themed STEM Camps
Close up of Moon Bread Recipe and Astronaut Toy
Solar Energy Experiments for Kids to explore!

Like this idea? Pin for later or share now with a friend!

You Might Also Like

Let’s Connect!