Speech, Language and the Solar Eclipse
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible to us! The eclipse is a perfect opportunity to help continue to build your child’s speech and language skills. Here are some ideas to try:
Start off by explaining to your child about the definition of a solar eclipse. Remember to keep your definition simple! For example, you could say “a solar eclipse is when the moon covers the sun for a short period of time”. Show some pictures of what a solar eclipse looks like in order to make your explanation as meaningful as possible.
If our child shows interest, you may want to explore more videos and images together. Take a visit to some local museums to explore our solar system and sculptures that may relate to the eclipse and our solar system. There will be many events going on during the weekend as well. We recommend checking out SolarFest: Eclipse Family Fun Days at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History! The event is held on April 6th and 7th offering family-friendly fun to gear up for the eclipse. For more information, visit https://www.cmnh.org/calendar/solarfest-eclipse-family-days-april-7.
It is extremely important to educate your child about safety precautions that we need to take during the eclipse. Scientists and medical professionals are highly recommending using protective eyewear while viewing the eclipse. Looking at the eclipse without protective eyewear can cause severe and permanent damage to our eyes.
Most kids love crafts and to recreate events. You can finger paint a paper plate together to make it look like the moon is covering the sun. Recreate the eclipse by using a ball and flashlight.
Lastly, there are many books to check out to gear up for the event! Check out your local library, or search the titles and authors on Youtube.
Solar Eclipse Books for Younger Kids
- A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse by Kate Allen Fox
- Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story by Jayme Sandberg
- Sun & Moon: A Giant Love Story by Lisa Desimini
- ABC’s of Solar Eclipse by Daniel Hallback
Solar Eclipse Books for Older Kids
- What Is a Solar Eclipse? (part of the Who HQ Now series) by Dana Meachen
- Totality!: An Eclipse Guide in Rhyme and Science by Jeffrey Bennett (better for older kids)
