You will need
A torch and some objects with shiny, reflective surfaces, perhaps a small mirror, foil, a colander, sieve or a saucepan.
How to
Encourage everyone to lie comfortably on the ground and turn the lights off (it’s ok if there is natural light coming into the room).
Choose two people to create the night sky – one person holding the torch, and the other holding the shiny object. Point the torch at the object and up to the ceiling.
What light and shadows appear?
What happens when you slowly move the torch? Or move the shiny object?
Can you all trace the light and shadow in the air with your finger?
Take turns using the light, and lying down watching.
You could play some gentle music or sounds from nature, or introduce a prism to add a rainbow to the scene.
You might like to sing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star together to finish the experience.
Discuss
Has anyone looked up at the stars at night?
Encourage children to describe the scene – were they lying on the ground, or sitting around a campfire? Or driving home late, looking out the car window? What did they see? What did it sound like? Was it warm or cold? How did it make them feel?
