To the moon and back: style and gifts for little stargazers

It’s been 50 years since Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin set foot on the moon as part of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module landing. It may be half a century ago, but our fascination with space travel hasn’t waned. From songs and films to storybooks, the moon is an eternal source of inspiration and fascination. Children in particular are drawn to the magic and wonder of all things space, from astronauts to spaceships. 

‘Everything seems bigger, brighter and more magical when you are a child,’ explains writer, mother and founder of Mystical Thinking, Emma Howarth. ‘The moon looms large for our little ones. We read them stories about the moon, and engage them with tales of rockets and space travel. Plus, studies show that children sleep less on a full moon, which, if you believe in the power and magic of the moon phases, makes sense.’

The moon is one of those natural wonders children are captivated by from an early age, with many of them pointing excitedly from the moment they first notice it in the sky. It makes sense – it has a profound effect on everything from moods to tides, thanks to its gravitational pull. Little lunar fans will delight in a pair of NASA pyjamas or our selection of duvet and pillow sets, including this astronaut set or planet rug, perfect for all aspiring space travellers.

Globes have always been cool desk accessories, but what about a more original take on the theme: a moon globe? The ultimate gift for any serious lunar fanatic, this light-up replica moon includes all the moon’s craters, hills and lakes and will look good on any desk. Younger kids may prefer this remote-controlled illuminated hang-on-the-wall moon which can be switched between 12 moon phases. Alternatively, good old-fashioned glow-in-the-dark space stickers always raise a smile and are a fail-safe gift idea for kids under 10.

The galaxy has been inspiring artists and designers since time began, and star prints are a fun way of wearing the theme as a fashion statement. From Mini Boden’s delightful star-smattered Mary Janes to Joules’ irresistible Milky Way-print backpack (perfect for back to school in September), there are numerous starry pieces to add a little shine to their wardrobes. The ultimate accessory for any stargazer? A proper telescope, of course.