We have a little aspiring astronaut in the house so we’re always looking for toys for space-obsessed children. LEGO has over the years had amazing space sets (there is even a page on NASA’s website dedicated to their collaboration with LEGO), and our playroom is filled with space-themed LEGO (and other space-related toys). Here is a list of our favourites:
Space LEGO
There is no shortage of amazing space LEGO sets available. Our first set was the LEGO DUPLO Town Space Shuttle Mission 10944. It has a very cute spaceship, and the set was quite easy to build for our 3-year old, with 23 fairly large pieces. I love the fact that there is a girl and a boy astronaut included. We then got the LEGO Disney Mickey & Minnie Mouse Space Rocket 10774: this set is really well priced (for 88 pieces), and fairly easy to build with the help of an adult. Last, but not least, is the LEGO DUPLO My First My First Space Rocket 30332. It’s for 1 ½ year olds, and has 8 pieces. This is so cute for the little ones, and helps with counting activities for slightly older children.
For more space lego: The best Lego space sets in 2021
Djeco Space toys
When Cara was still a baby we discovered Djeco, a French family toy business started in 1954, at a little toy store in Cape Town. Since then (a good 5+ years) it’s been our go-to choice for birthdays and special occasions. We also wrote about their Pom Pom craft set in our Bedtime ideas that don’t involve a screen article. For the space fans they have the cutest music box, make-your-own kaleidoscope, and Tack Zap hammering set. Djeco toys are available locally from The Kid Zone, Honest Toys, Takealot and all good toy stores.
Little Beehive Cardboard Rocket
No space toy list would be complete without Little Beehive’s cardboard rocket.
Their rockets are the perfect addition to a play room and a wonderful fun activity to decorate.
This local, Mom-owned business is run by the lovely Shené, and you can DM @little_beehive_ or WhatsApp 0823715734 to order your cardboard creation
Our favourite space books
Usborne Books just have the most incredible selection of books for children of all ages. Their “Peep Inside” series is just perfect for toddlers, and encourages children to interact with the book while you’re reading to them. The My Very First Space Book, and Peep Inside Space are our current favourites – our 6 and 3-year old both enjoy having these read to them throughout the day.
Don’t miss out: Build to Launch
Something very exciting is coming for space-obsessed children: LEGO® Education is teaming up with NASA and the Artemis I team to bring students and teachers an out-of-this-world STEAM learning series. Build to Launch is an exploration of the technology, STEAM concepts and careers behind the Artemis I mission to the Moon. Join the all new LEGO® Space Team and their Artemis I team counterparts for a 10-week interactive digital learning adventure. Each episode students will find themselves in the shoes of NASA engineers, scientists, and of course astronauts. Through open ended lessons students will get hands-on and solve similar problems the Artemis I team faces as they build towards launch. It is free, and will start on 14 September. More information available here.
