The concept of space is just as fascinating to kids as it is to adults. With Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson’s recent trips to space, it’s becoming even more tantalizing and accessible to everyone.

“Apart from the sun, the moon, and the stars, what else is out there?” “Is it true that humans can survive on Mars?” “Is Earth the only planet inhabited by human beings?”

If your little one has begun pestering you with such questions, now is the best time to stimulate their interest. You can do so by getting them space-themed toys.

Whether your toddler is obsessed with astronomy or you’re simply looking to introduce the subject to them, these top-rated space toys for kids will come in handy.

What to consider when choosing the right space toy

There’s a dizzying array of space toys on the market, which makes finding the perfect one for your child somewhat of a challenge. To narrow down your options, consider the following:

1. Fun

The primary reason for buying your child space toys is to provide endless entertainment. So, the first thing you should check is whether the toy has an element of fun to it. Does it have any specific features that will excite your toddler when they see it?

2. Age

The next thing you’ll want to consider is whether the toy is age-appropriate.

Most manufacturers indicate the specific age group the toy is designed for, so this won’t be difficult to figure out. Remember that while a space toy may be suitable for your teenager, it might pose a safety hazard for your 3-year-old.

3. Safety

You should pay particular attention when buying space toys for younger kids. Ideally, they should not be made of sharp objects that could harm a child. Nor should they have any small parts that pose a choking hazard for your tot.

So, even though the manufacturer has recommended the toy for a specific age group, conduct your own due diligence. Inspect the toy, taking note of the materials it’s made of.

4. Multi-sensory experience

The best educational space toys for kids are those that engage several of their senses at once. For instance, space toys that light up, produce noise, and have different textures do a better job of stimulating your child’s mind than those lacking in these features.

Best toys for kids interested in space

Are you looking for cool space theme toys for kids? Check out these options:

Best rocket ship space toy: Lego Star Wars Spaceship

If your child is a Star Wars fan, they’re sure to love the Lego Star Wars Spaceship toy. The modeling kit has a ton of details that will bring a smile to your little one’s face.

It features 2 spring-loaded shooters, spinning top and bottom gun turrets, a descending ramp, a cockpit, and their favorite Star Wars action figures, including Chewbacca, Boolio, and Lando Calrissian.

This spaceship sports a user-friendly design, so your child can operate it with ease. For instance, the top panels are structured to open seamlessly, revealing the interior. This interior chamber is also well-equipped to offer limitless space-firing adventures.

Best solar system space toy: 4M 3427 Solar System Planetarium

Is your child eager to learn about the solar system? If so, check out the Solar System Planetarium toy designed by 4M. Recommended for kids aged 8 and above, this kit is great for teaching the wonders of the universe.

What we like most is the fact that it’s interactive. Kids get to not only assemble but also paint as they learn about different planets.

This kit contains stencils, rods, a string, planets, and a squeeze-glow paint pen. There’s also a wall chart and up to 10 sets of quiz questions. These additional learning tools make it easy for your child to master the solar system concepts.

Best for STEM learning: HAKUNAMATATA Space Toys Building Set

If your primary goal is to develop your toddler’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) skills, then you’ll have to be very particular about the space toys you choose. One that is perfect for this purpose is the STEM Space Shuttle Building Set by HAKUNAMATATA.

The kit comprises 566 parts, which can be pieced together to create two different themes: a space shuttle launching center and space exploration devices.

By building the rocket ships and instruments from scratch, toddlers can simulate the process of space exploration. As a bonus, all the pieces are brightly colored, so you can bet your child will be amused and interested in playing with them.

Best for toddlers: Educational Insights Design & Drill Bolt Buddies Rocket

If you have a child between 1 and 3, then you know that they like to be engaged in every activity—a situation that sometimes ends in tears. For such kids, the Educational Insights Buddies Rocket is the perfect toy.

The miniature rocket ship has a very straightforward design. It’s made up of just 6 parts and 7 bolts, meaning you can let your munchkin assist in the assembly. There’s even a kid-sized drill, which they’ll certainly enjoy using.

Once the toy is all pieced together, your baby can play with the rocket and the 2 Bolt Buddy figures.

Best for room decor: Great Explorations 3-D Solar System Glow In The Dark Ceiling Hanging Kit

Kids’ toys have a bad rep for being dull and plasticky, making an environment look like a toy store rather than a fun playroom. If you’re looking for a space toy that doubles up as a stylish decor item, the 3-D Solar System Glow in the Dark is your best bet.

The kit comprises 9 gleaming model planets, 10 crystal push pins shaped like stars, and up to 200 glow-in-the-dark stickers. All these elements will make your child’s play area look like outer space.

Apart from entertaining kids and decorating a room, this toy set pulls triple duty by serving as a learning tool. Use it to teach your toddler various concepts, such as the different sizes of the planets and how far away they are from the sun.

Best creativity booster: Lego City Space Mars Research Shuttle

Kids are highly imaginative. One way to boost their creative skills is to buy interactive toys that require them to be hands-on.

The Lego City Space Mars Research Shuttle toy is a case in point. It comes with a staggering 273 parts that your kiddo has to piece together to create a spaceship. This not only keeps them engaged for hours but also encourages them to be creative.

Best for outdoor play: Estes 7262 Flying Model Rocket Kit

Among space theme toys for kids, a rocket launcher is the most fascinating one, and understandably so. Any item that can soar in the sky is sure to amuse your child. If you’re looking for a toy that fits this description, check out Estes 7262 Flying Model Rocket Kits.

The package includes a vibrantly colored parachute, laser-cut wood fins, body tubes, molded plastic nose cone, and decals.

Your kids will have a ton of fun putting the rocket together, painting it, and finally launching it in open space. Once it’s equipped with a 10-3t mini engine, it can soar up to the incredible altitude of 400 feet.

Besides, your kids get to play in the open, which is great for those who don’t like to be confined indoors.

Best for an astronomical experience: Little Experimenter Telescope for Kids

If you want your child to have a first-hand experience at space exploration, consider buying them the Little Experimenter Telescope.

Designed for younger kids, this telescope comes with every accessory they would need for an optimal viewing experience.

For instance, it has an eyepiece made of soft flexible material to enhance comfort. The set also includes a foldable tripod, which lets you adjust the position of the telescope to get the best viewing angle.

The educational activity book thrown into the mix is a nice touch. It provides a ton of information that will help your little one learn more about space systems.

Wrap up

It can be difficult to sift through the infinite options of space toys available in the store. To make your selection process less stressful, consider factors such as age and safety. You’ll also need to decide whether the space toy is entertaining enough and whether it encourages your child to be imaginative.

Our list includes various types of toys suitable for different age groups and interests. Some are model kits that allow your child to build a rocket ship from scratch. Others are telescopes, giving your child first-hand experience in space exploration.