Sensory Play in LIVE Space at Small Space Day
National Space Centre

Small Space Days

Calling All Tiny Astronauts!

Looking for a fun, engaging day out that’s perfect for your curious little one? Our Small Space Days are specially designed for toddlers and pre-schoolers, offering a magical introduction to space through hands-on play and learning.

Created in collaboration with Early Years Development specialists and our expert Education Team, this is a unique opportunity for your child to explore, imagine, and discover at their own pace.

With no school or large group bookings, your little one can wonder and learn with confidence in a calm, welcoming environment.

One show is included in your first visit. If you would like to add a second show, you can purchase additional tickets for £3 per person from the ticket desk.

Enjoy free drop-in sessions featuring:

  • Space-themed crafts
  • Music, dance, and movement
  • Interactive storytelling
  • Play-based exploration

Your standard ticket includes a FREE Annual Pass upgrade, giving you unlimited visits to the Centre for a whole year - including three of the four Small Space Days we host each year*.

*Our Small Space Day - Christmas Special is a Premium Event and not included in the Annual Pass.

 

Activities

 

Here are some of the activities you might find at our Small Space Day events. Specific activities and crafts may vary depending on the event and seasonal theme.

  1. Bubbles and lights as part of sensory play in LIVE Space
    National Space Centre

    Sing-a-long

    Time to dance and play with lights and music in this out-of-this-world sensory experience.

  2. Science Communicator reads a book at Storytime at Small Space Day
    National Space Centre

    Storytime

    Gather around for a cozy storytime session! Spark imaginations, foster a love for reading, and embark on exciting interstellar adventures together.

  3. Child launching the Mercury 7 capsule
    National Space Centre

    Gallery Trails

    Set off on a space adventure through our galleries with themed trails made especially for curious little explorers!

  4. Family and toddler in the Tinytarium
    National Space Centre

    Tinytarium

    Join Sunshine for an exciting space journey in our tinytarium, where your little explorers can learn all about day and night.

  5. Family participating in a workshop at Accessible Afternoon
    National Space Centre

    Craft Activities

    Dive into hands-on, space-themed craft activities designed to fuel imaginations and creativity

FAQs

 

Small Space Days are designed for children aged 2–5, but babies may also enjoy the sensory elements. Older children are welcome too—our galleries and artefact collections will be open for them to explore and enjoy.

No, we don’t take group bookings for Small Space Days, as the event is designed specifically for young children and their parents. Please visit our Education Page to explore programmes that may be better suited to your group.

Yes! This event is designed to offer a safe, welcoming, and educational space for children developing through play. With a relaxed schedule of drop-in activities throughout the day, families can take part at their own pace.

We also host regular Accessible Afternoons, an accessible programme for all ages, designed for SEND visitors and those with additional needs who may benefit from a quieter experience during non-peak times.

No—this event is specifically designed for young children and their families. The galleries will be lively with children’s activities, so it’s not the best time for an adult-only visit.

We recommend checking out our Space Lates events, or visiting on a sunny weekend or midweek during the summer holidays, when the Centre tends to be much quieter.

No—all activities are open for children to enjoy, but they must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

Baby changing facilities can be found next to the shop, alongside men, female and accessible toilets. 

We offer a dedicated area to park pushchairs, so you can explore the galleries and enjoy the event buggy-free.

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