Introduce students to Japanese culture and science through story, yoga and hands‑on exploration. In this episode, children hear about Amaterasu and practice Sun Salutation while learning how light connects our world.

Suggested uses:

• Homeschool enrichment: Pair the legend of Amaterasu with the Sun Salutation sequence to foster resilience, gratitude and cultural awareness. Encourage kids to journal about how myths from around the world explain natural phenomena.
• Classroom SEL: Integrate the story and poses into social‑emotional learning. Discuss how teamwork and creativity brought light back to the world, and invite students to share ways they can brighten someone’s day.
• Movement breaks: Use Sun Salutation as a transition or brain break. Research shows that yoga improves balance, strength and self‑regulation in school‑age children, making it a healthy way to refocus during the day.
• Science connections: Tie the Shining Science 4 experiments to the myth. Explore how light makes shadows, powers solar ovens and creates rainbows. Discuss why understanding the science of sunlight deepens our appreciation for stories about sun gods and goddesses.
• Comparative mythology: Compare Amaterasu’s story with sun myths from other cultures (such as Apollo or Ra) to highlight universal themes of hope and renewal. Ask students to identify common symbols and unique cultural elements.

By weaving together story, movement and science, this episode offers a multidisciplinary lesson that inspires curiosity and empathy.

Shining Science: 4 Light and Sun Experiments for Kids

Discover the Shining Science: 4 Light and Sun Experiments for Kids printable inspired by the Amaterasu sun goddess story and Sun Salutations. Explore science, myth, and movement with sun prints, sundials, solar ovens, and rainbows. Perfect for ages 5–12.

Category: Science, Art Projects, Weekly Challenges

Tags: art, light energy, science experiments, solar, sun

Shining Science: 4 Light and Sun Experiments for Kids

A hands-on printable inspired by the story of Amaterasu and the practice of Sun Salutations

When the Japanese sun goddess Amaterasu hid away in her cave, the whole world fell into darkness. The gods worked together with mirrors, jewels, music, and dancing until she peeked out, bringing back light and warmth. In our Faithfully Explore! episode about Amaterasu, kids practice a flowing Sun Salutation yoga sequence while imagining the cave doors opening wider with each movement. To extend the learning, we’ve created a printable filled with four light and sun science experiments that connect myth, movement, and discovery.

This activity pack is designed for curious kids ages 5–12 and their families. Each experiment helps children explore the science of sunlight while reflecting on the story of Amaterasu and the power of light in our lives. It’s a perfect way to weave science, story, and spirituality together at home or in the classroom.

What’s Inside the Printable?

1. Rainbow Refraction
Using a mirror, a bowl of water, and a sheet of paper, children can catch a rainbow. This experiment demonstrates how white light bends and splits into many colors. A fun way to connect back to the gods’ mirror that drew Amaterasu out of the cave.

2. Sun Prints
Kids arrange leaves, flowers, or other objects on special paper or construction paper, then watch as the sun’s rays create beautiful silhouettes. It’s art and science rolled into one. Showing how sunlight can cause chemical and color changes.

3. Homemade Sundial
By placing a pencil upright in the center of a circle, children discover how shadows move throughout the day. This experiment introduces the concept of the Earth’s rotation and how people used shadows to tell time long before digital clocks.

4. Solar Oven S’mores
Who knew the sun could cook? With a pizza box, foil, and plastic wrap, families can create a simple solar oven. Place graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows inside, then let the sunshine do its work. Kids will see how light energy transforms into heat energy while enjoying a tasty treat.

Reflection Prompts

Each experiment includes thoughtful prompts that shift the focus from “Wow, that’s cool!” to “Why does this happen?” Kids are encouraged to think like scientists:

• What happened when the sun hit the paper?
• How do shadows change as the day goes on?
• Why did the s’mores get warm even though there was no oven or fire?
• What does a rainbow tell us about light?

These prompts help build observation skills, curiosity, and a love for discovery.

Connecting Myth, Movement, and Science

The Amaterasu story teaches us about the importance of light and community. The Sun Salutation practice reminds us to honor the rhythm of the sun with our breath and body. These experiments add a third layer: the science behind sunlight. Together, they create a rich, cross-curricular experience where kids engage with story, movement, and STEM learning.

Imagine a child doing Sun Salutations outdoors, then pausing to check the shadow on their sundial, or cooking a solar s’more while thinking about the warmth Amaterasu brings. That’s the magic of combining tradition, play, and science.

Why Families and Educators Love It

• Hands-on learning: No screens required, just simple household items.
• Multi-age friendly: Adaptable for kids from early elementary to middle school.
• Cross-curricular: Blends mythology, yoga, art, and science.
• Encourages wonder: Helps kids see sunlight not just as warmth but as energy, timekeeper, and rainbow maker.

Belief Backpack Takeaway

Just like Amaterasu’s story reminds us that light returns after darkness, these experiments remind children that science is a tool to uncover the mysteries of our world. The Belief Backpack treasure from this printable? Curiosity shines a light on understanding.

Note: This section contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Faithfully Explore!

Women of Myth: From Deer Woman and Mami Wata to Amaterasu and Athena, Your Guide to the Amazing and Diverse Women from World Mythology
by Jenny Williamson (Author), Genn McMenemy (Author), Sara Richard (Illustrator)

This dazzling collection celebrates powerful women from myths and legends around the world. From the wisdom of Athena and the radiance of Amaterasu to the strength of Deer Woman and the mystery of Mami Wata, readers are introduced to heroines, goddesses, and spirits whose stories have inspired generations. With vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, Women of Myth brings global folklore to life, showing how women’s courage, creativity, and resilience shine across cultures and time. Perfect for anyone who loves mythology, history, or discovering fierce and fascinating women of legend.

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Amaterasu: Return of the Sun [A Japanese Myth] (Graphic Myths and Legends)
by Paul D. Storrie (Author), Ron Randall (Illustrator)

This vivid graphic novel retells the legendary Japanese myth of Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess. When her mischievous brother plunges the world into darkness, Amaterasu hides away in a cave. The fate of the heavens and earth rests on her return. With bold illustrations and dramatic storytelling, readers are drawn into a tale of light, renewal, and the power of community. Part of the Graphic Myths and Legends series, this book makes ancient stories accessible and exciting, blending cultural history with the action and energy of a comic.

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Yoga Pretzels: 50 Fun Yoga Activities for Kids & Grownups (Barefoot Books Activity Decks)
by Tara Guber (Author), Leah Kalish (Author), Sophie Fatus (Illustrator)

This colorful deck of 50 cards turns yoga into a playful adventure for the whole family. With cheerful illustrations and easy-to-follow instructions, kids and grown-ups can stretch, balance, breathe, and relax together. From partner poses to mindfulness games, Yoga Pretzels makes movement fun while helping children build strength, focus, and calm. Perfect for classrooms, family time, or rainy days indoors, these activities invite everyone to bend, twist, and giggle their way to well-being.

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Yoga for Children: 200+ Yoga Poses, Breathing Exercises, and Meditations for Healthier, Happier, More Resilient Children
by Lisa Flynn (Author)

This comprehensive guide brings yoga to kids in a joyful, practical way. With over 200 poses, breathing practices, and simple meditations, children can explore movement and mindfulness that build strength, focus, and emotional balance. Step-by-step instructions and playful variations make the practices easy to adapt at home, in classrooms, or in group settings. Designed by yoga educator Lisa Flynn, Yoga for Children helps young people develop lifelong tools for relaxation, confidence, and resilience… all while having fun.

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