Moon landing: the 21 best space toys to get kids excited about space
Remember the good old days when all you had to do to get kids agitated was to send three guys to the nearest orbiting rock? These days only high-definition computer graphics and fictional characters with Happy Meal spinoff toys sets their little hearts a-pounding.
But the 40th anniversary of the Moon landing presents a stellar (or make that interstellar) opportunity to fire the imagination of the next generation of space engineers, astrophysicists, jet pilots and, of course, astronauts.
Here, the best toys, treats and space-themed goodies for inquiring minds. 3...2...1...
1. Astronaut Ice Cream
This freeze dried, vacuum packed, ready to eat, Neapolitan ice cream is a favourite with astronauts as a space party treat.
£2.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
2. Moon in my room, a moon light for bedroom with sensors
This detailed model of the moon hangs on the wall and, with its built-in light sensor, begins to shine as it gets dark. It comes with a free audio CD of facts about the Moon and its relationship to Earth.
£30 www.sciencemuseumstore.com
3. NASA space suit (orange)
A wonderfully detailed replica space suit, closely modelled on the NASA shuttle pilot suit. It features authentic-looking chest and waist harnesses and a padded neck collar ring, for maximum safety during those rough landings.
£34.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
4. Astronaut space boots
These official-looking space boots are intended to be worn over shoes and complete any astronaut costume with their NASA logos and special zipped compartments.
£17.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
5. Space blanket
A genuine NASA spin-off product, this blanket will protect your child from solar radiation and help protect their multi-million pound rocket when travelling in outer space.
£4.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
6. Vintage style tin robots
After Noah has one of the best collections of space-themed tin toys that evoke the retro era of the landing. They come in classic designs, just beware of sharp edges.
From around £20 www.afternoah.com
7. Rare astronaut Jesus doll
Jesus returns, after a long journey around outer space, to provide us with a new twist on the old astronaut adventure story.
$69.95 www.strangekiss.com
8. Moon globe
A detailed moon globe so detailed you can plan your next family holiday there.
$59.95 www.spacetrader.com
9. There's No Place Like Space Dr Seuss book
Another great one from the Cat in the Hat Learning Library. Sadly, however, there are no star-bellied sneeches in space.
From £6.75 new on Amazon www.amazon.co.uk
10. Space Barbie
She comes in a fetching blue NASA jumpsuit with matching luggage and helps introduce unnaturally proportioned gender equality to space flight.
$16 www.spacetrader.com
11. Inflatable solar system set
Let your children learn about the solar system the safe, wipe clean, way with this inflatable solar system, complete with all nine planets plus the sun and the moon. Gets a big thumbs-up from a fellow Times staffer.
£30 www.shopwiki.co.uk
12. Fisher space pen
Designed to work in zero gravity, these pens work under water, on grease, and on alien skin (we think). The specially pressurised ink refills last 100 years.
£16.95 www.fisherspacepens.co.uk
13. Space shuttle lollipops
These are great for party bags, treats, or just keeping them happy. Plenty of sugar ensures regular lift-off. $1.24 www.thespacestore.com
14. Astronaut pyjamas
Dubbed the pyjamas to boldly go (to bed) in, these are 100% cotton, machine washable and printed all over with a NASA space suit design. £14.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
15. Astrolux Reflector Telescope
The Astrolux Reflector Telescope is recommended by prominent astronomer Sir Patrick Moore and is ideal for young stargazers.
£80 www.sciencemuseumstore.com
16. Failure is not an option wristband or t-shirt
The perfect t-shirt for pushy parents and space-mad kids alike.
$12.00 www.spacetrader.com
17. NASA space helmet
This NASA-style space helmet comes with built-in sound clips and a mock microphone for talking to mission control. It could keep your child entertained, safely within their helmet, for hours.
£34.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
18. Rocketman long-sleeve blue t-shirt
An organic cotton t-shirt, designed by Arabella Miller, perfect for a little astronaut’s day off.
£12.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
19. Big Cardboard Rocket
An eco-friendly approach to space play, this cardboard rocket is made from sturdy recycled card and can be decorated at home with paint, pens and crayons. Alpha Mummy Caitlin Moran is a fan.
£36.99 www.spacekids.co.uk
20. Alien invader toddler costume
This costume glows in the dark, providing entertainment for your children and helping you keep an eye on them.
$23.88 (in sale) www.wondercostumes.com
21. Buzz Aldrin autographed picture inside lunar module
If you’re feeling flush, this 16" X 20" autographed photo of Buzz Aldrin inside the Lunar Module captures a spaceman at work. Look at it as an investment into your child’s future career at NASA.
$1,155.00 www.spacetrader.com
-- Frances Perraudin
