The Perseid meteor shower happens every August and it’s one of the best meteor showers for kids to see. With some viewing tips, you can see tons of shooting stars from this spectacular show!

I admit that I love seeing the Perseid meteor shower and that I never get enough of these amazing shooting stars. We go every year – sometimes even 2 nights in a row. We usually bring along some of my parent’s friends that I also know – and it is always fun.

My dad chooses the place, my folks know what to pack and… we enjoy the experience. Except in 2022 when the moon made it impossible to see any stars.

So let me tell you how to see the Perseid meteor shower.

Seeing the Perseid Meteor Shower Like a Pro

Get Ready for Late Nights

The Perseid meteor shower peaks after midnight when the sky is really dark.

Try to stay up as late as you can to see the most meteors! Nap earlier in the day so you don’t feel too sleepy. I slept 3 hours today and don’t usually sleep during the afternoon!

You can also sleep from 9 PM to 11 PM – as the best time to see the Perseid meteor shower is after midnight and before dawn.

The best place to see the Perseids is outside cities and areas with bright lights.

Bring blankets – or wear something warm. Yes, I know, it is summer, it is hot. But not during the night, in the middle of nowhere.

Make sure to pack some snacks to make it fun. And bring water with you too!

Also, take some chairs – keep in mind that you will look at the sky!

Scope Out Your Viewing Spot

Find an open area away from city lights for the darkest sky. Bring a star map app on your phone or tablet so you can watch the meteors radiate out from the Perseus constellation. Face northeast where the sky is clearest.

I admit that here my dad does a great job.

Plus, last year we saw some owls and, on our way back, a few foxes.

The photo is not mine – as we just enjoy seeing the meteor shower – so credits: Photo by Michał Mancewicz on Unsplash

Let Your Eyes Adjust

When you first get outside, don’t look at any bright screens. Allow 20 minutes for your eyes to get used to the dark. The darker it is, the more meteors you’ll be able to see.

Basically, don’t play in the car is my tip. As tempting as it is 🙂

As a fun note, if we don’t bring friends with us, I usually am asleep in the car.

Know When to Look

The meteor shower peaks in mid-August, but you can see more meteors a few days before and after too. This year, the peak is the nights of August 12-13-14. For the best show, watch in the hours before dawn.

Make Some Meteor Shower Wishes

There’s a tradition of making a wish on the first meteor you see. Close your eyes and make a silent wish before telling your family you saw one!

Try Using Binoculars

With binoculars, you can see fainter meteors you might normally miss. Take turns passing them around. Lay on the ground so your arms don’t get tired of holding them up.

I admit that I do not use binoculars, but I know of kids and people who do.

Enjoy the Coolest Astronomical Event!

The Perseids are one of the best meteor showers for spotting tons of shooting stars. Follow these kid-approved tips for viewing the Perseid meteor shower!