Best space puzzles for kids

(Image credit: @Ben Stern on Unsplash)

Future astronomers will piece together the mysteries of the universe with the help of a cosmic puzzle. Chock-full of stars, galaxies, and celestial bodies, the expansive cosmos is represented in these multi-piece mind-benders to engage and delight space lovers of all ages. To get the quizzical quest started, we've curated a list of our favorite space puzzles. 

Staff pick

(Image credit: Melissa & Doug)

Melissa & Doug solar system floor puzzle

48-piece planetary puzzle

Kiddos, ages three to six years, will unravel the beauty of the universe with this planetary puzzle. The colorful solar system illustration is revealed with each sizable piece, 48 in total. Once assembled, the puzzle will measure 3-by-9.3-by-11.8 inches.  

Astronomical alphabet

(Image credit: Begin Again Toys)

Begin Again space A to Z puzzle and playset

26-piece wooden alphabetized space puzzle

Little humans, ages three years and up, with an interest in outer space, will appreciate this wooden puzzle-style play set by Begin Again. Each dimensional piece, 26 in total, is shaped to commemorate astronomy using the alphabet. As children build and play, they'll learn their letters, identify planets and more, and journey to space through their imaginations.

Galactic glow

(Image credit: Mudpuppy)

Mudpuppy glow-in-the-dark outer space puzzle

Glowing 100-piece outer space puzzle

Colorful planets, sailing comets, and spinning galaxies detail this spacey puzzle. Kids, ages five years and up, will assemble this creative illustration of the universe in 100 pieces. This engaging jigsaw is a fun choice at any time of day, but the pieces illuminate with a mesmerizing glow when the lights are out. When the puzzle is complete, this cool cosmic design will measure 5-by-7.5-by-3.5 inches.

Planetary puzzler

(Image credit: Crocodile Creek)

Crocodile Creek 72-piece solar system puzzle

72-piece puzzle with a vibrant planet-packed design

Children, ages six years and up, will discover the solar system with this vibrant 72-piece puzzle. The planets, sun, and moon are creatively and colorfully characterized, offering a cheery tour of each celestial body. Once this entertaining puzzle is solved, it will measure at 14-by-19 inches of planetary fun.

Pick up the pieces

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Space-inspired puzzles will give kids the chance to rebuild the universe by connecting all the right pieces. They will discover the planets, stars, and more by solving how each celestial fragment fits together to complete the entire picture. Our first choice is the Melissa & Doug solar system floor puzzle because it inspires kids, from ages three to six years, to discover the solar system. The vibrant illustration features the planets, sun, moon, and a collection of shimmering stars. The puzzle consists of 48 large pieces that amount to 3-by-9.3-by-11.8 inches once assembled.

If you're looking for a space puzzle with a little something extra, the Mudpuppy glow-in-the-dark outer space puzzle is a great choice. This 100-piece puzzle, designed for ages five years and up, features a cool cosmic image filled with constellations, planets, an astronaut, and even a satellite. The pieces that make up this fun puzzle are great on their own but become more magical in the dark. They glow!

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