Astronomy is a fun topic to research, and kids need a little coaching in the research department when they’re young, say elementary to jr. high age. I like to see the reaction in the faces of this age group because the pictures are so compelling. There’s still a huge “oooh!” and “aahhh!” factor when they are either encouraged to draw what they’ve seen, or look up the visuals in an encyclopedia or online. Getting them to learn isn’t half as important as getting them to want to learn, and this a great avenue.

Many nights our family has stayed up to see some astronomical event like a comet or eclipse, even with school and work the next day. It’s fun to break out of the norm once and a while. The experience is even better when it becomes educational for kids the next day. Taking that extra step to research what you’ve seen together adds both depth and quality time.

Astronomy Topics to Look Up:

• Nebula

• Asteroids

• Milky Way

• Black holes

• Satellite

• Mars

• Venus

Once they’ve looked up the image of something, the younger ones may like to draw with color to convey it. As if your refrigerator didn’t have enough on it already! You may have better luck getting your older kids to make models with clay or paper mache. See if they can tell you why they think astronomical events happen the way they do.

You’re touching a wide variety of subjects when you do this:

• Research

• Art

• Science

• Reading

Astronomy really is one of many educational hobbies that foster deeper thought and amazement in the universe. Get involved with something educational for kids today, tomorrow depends on it.

Photo Credit: Velo Steve on flickr

According to the USPS website, the 1993 Elvis stamp was the most popular stamp ever collected, with more than 124 million saved by 2006. “Stamp collecting continues as one of the world’s most popular educational hobbies that the entire family can enjoy,” said Postmaster General John E. Potter.

While it’s nice to delve into the history and seriousness of some of the issues on a stamp, it’s perfectly acceptable to be entertained by them as well. Some of the more popular stamps over the years:

• DC Comics Super Heroes, 2006
• Lucille Ball, 2001
• Marilyn Monroe, 1995
• Jim Henson: Muppets, 2005
• Bugs Bunny, 1997
• Legends of Baseball, 2000
• Summer Olympics, 1992

Take some time today to share the memories of these entertaining icons you may have stored up in a stamp. Philately brings us together over an album, or table cover to “remember when.” It’s quite possible that your kids have learned something in school they can share with you, or that you might have to straighten them out about! Maybe it’s time to “Shake, Rattle, and Roll.”

Take some time to enjoy educational hobbies with your children every day. They won’t forget the time you spend teaching them how to put together a collection or referring to it when you, or they, peak interest in a new stamp.

Philately goes unnoticed by many, but remains loved by those who see the beauty of a tiny moment, frozen in history.

Learn more about stamp collecting at http://www.usps.com or visit your local hobby store to find convenient equipment and supplies for storing your new or existing stamp collection.

Image Credit: the collector 2 by Lamerie on flickr