Guess the Planets
Blast off on a journey through space with this multi-sensory game of exploration, discovery and anticipation. Players are invited to explore sensory ‘cosmic clues’ linked to different planets, then discover where their space adventure has taken them.
Before you begin
We created planets by colouring in paper plates with chunky crayons but you can create yours by sticking different textures or fabrics to paper plates. Alternatively, search for printable planet pictures online, like these printable flashcards from Twinkl.
Introduce one or two sensory clues for each planet, allowing time for participants to explore, process and respond before you reveal the answer.
You know your explorers best! Please feel free to adapt the suggested items and use whichever communication methods best match each participant’s needs, preferences and understanding.
Players do not need to give an answer to take part; the focus is on enjoying the sensory experiences and sharing the excitement of the journey together.
The Game
Lay out the planet where everyone can access or see them. For each planet, introduce one or two sensory clues, allowing time for players to explore, respond and make any guesses before you reveal the answer.
Use the same phrases, sounds or routines each time to build familiarity, anticipation and excitement as you travel from planet to planet. Use a thunder tube or shake a baking tray to make a 'rocket' rumble, or make a drumming noise as you travel between planets.
Most importantly, have fun exploring space together.
Cosmic Clues : Explore red and earthy textures using kinetic sand, red play sand, and a terracotta flower pot. Use a warm heat pack or fleece fabric to represent the planet’s heat. Crumple red tissue paper to create a visual and tactile experience.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Mars! The Red Planet
Cosmic Clues : Use chiffon scarves, fabric strips, and ribbon streamers with a fan to create swirling air. Use a drum, tub, or thunder sounds to represent the planet’s powerful and stormy atmosphere.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Jupiter! The Giant Planet
Cosmic Clues : Explore natural textures with leaves, grass, moss, bark, and flowers. Use birdsong sounds and a sealed soil sensory bag to represent nature. Add lavender or fresh herbs for natural scents.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Earth! The Nature Planet
Cosmic Clues : Explore different rings and circular shapes using bangles, hoops, ring stacker toys, glow bracelets, and cardboard rings. A CD/DVD could be used with supervision to represent reflective rings.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Saturn! The Ringed Planet
Cosmic Clues : Explore a cold pack, slightly thawed frozen flannel, or shiny blue fabric. Use a fan, wind wand, or blue feathers to create a gentle icy breeze.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Uranus! The Icy Planet
Cosmic Clues : Introduce blue fabric or blue tulle. Explore water, movement, and sound using an ocean drum, fine mist spray, gentle water play, shells, and a wet sponge.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Neptune! The Blue Planet
Cosmic Clues : Use soft, white textures to represent thick clouds. Explore bubble wrap, bubbles, cotton wool, cloud dough, and soft tulle. Shaving foam can be used if appropriate.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Venus! The Cloudy Planet
Cosmic Clues : Explore metallic sounds and rocky textures using spoons, trays, whisks, keys, foil, and measuring cups or smooth pebbles.
"We've explored the Cosmic Clues -
Which planet did we travel to?"
Answer : Mercury! The Rocky Planet