You should find a star chart.  When we say you, we mean both of you (well, duh).  The first part of this activity is going to a bookstore or library or searching the internet for a start chart showing your local sky.  Sometimes the local newspaper even prints star charts.  The only other thing you’ll need is a couple of bright flashlights and warm coats.

Look at the start charts while you’re still inside (you might have some hot chocolate while doing this).  Examine them closely.  Can you name the constellations?  Can you even see the things that the constellations are supposed to represent?  Maybe you and your Little can make up some new names or even create a few constellations just for the two of you. 

Since most Bigs and Littles live in places where there are lots and lots of lights on at night, it’s hard to see the sky.  On the other hand, that makes an even more interesting and educational activity.  Dress warmly (it is winter!), grab your flashlights and star charts, and wander outside.  Find a dark place in the neighborhood….stay away from streetlights and stores…and look at the sky.  Really, really look at the sky. Of course, as with everything else you do, always keep safety in mind.  Don’t go into a dangerous alley or a place where you could fall into a deep hole.   Maybe you can even go with a group through a local museum or astronomer’s group.

What do you see? Can you identify any constellations?  Is the moon there?  What phase is it in…full, new, gone totally?  Are there any planets that you can see?  Planets tend to be more colorful and don’t twinkle.  For that matter, if you’re in the city, can you see anything in the sky except for the glow of the city?  Look at the sky two different ways.  First, just look and see what you see and if you can remember and locate any constellations (and which of you has a better memory and imagination).  Then take out that star map and try and use it to find things in the sky.

The second part of this activity involves some travel. Go someplace not too far away where it’s lots darker.  This might be a huge park in the city although you’ll still have a bright sky, but it’s better if you can go to a more rural area far away from city lights.  Remember to keep safety in mind so don’t go someplace where you can get lost or stepped on by a cow.  And you know what to do here (we know you’re very clever).  The same things.  Look at the sky and notice how different it is.  Look for the moon and planets and constellations with and without the help of the star chart.  And don’t forget to make up some of your own constellations.

The two of you can do all of this in one night or do it over several visits.  Maybe you can find a telescope or binoculars and see what difference they make.  Maybe there’s a museum with a planetarium and you can go and see the sky show.  Why, that’s a great activity for a rainy or a freezing cold day.  However many times you look at the stars, don’t forget that each time it ends by warming up with hot chocolate.  And watch out for vampires.