NASA Climate Kids – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

NASA Climate Kids

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

app2016

78%

WISE Score

4.8

App Store

Float around the ISS, grow space lettuce, and learn real NASA science—if you can get past the 2016 Android-only vibes.

NASA Climate Kids

app

Everyone, 2016

78%

WISE Score

4.8

App Store

Float around the ISS, grow space lettuce, and learn real NASA science—if you can get past the 2016 Android-only vibes.

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Where to Find

App Store

Google Play

Screenwise Verdict

This is earnest, well-intentioned NASA education wrapped in a simple app format. The zero-gravity movement is genuinely cool, and learning about real ISS plant experiments beats most shallow 'edutainment.'

But let's be real: it's a 2016 Android app about growing lettuce in space. It's not going to compete with Minecraft or even modern science apps for most kids' attention. The scope is narrow, the gameplay is task-driven rather than exploratory, and the dated interface will be obvious to kids used to slicker experiences.

That said, for the right kid—one who's already NASA-curious, who watches space launches, who asks questions about astronauts—this is a solid, safe way to dig deeper into real science. Just set expectations that it's more 'interactive textbook' than 'game,' and you'll avoid disappointment.

If your kid is space-obsessed, download it. If they're lukewarm on science, this won't be the gateway drug you're hoping for.

Age Fit

Designed for upper-elementary kids (roughly 8-12) who have curiosity about space and science. Younger kids might enjoy the zero-g flying but won't grasp the scientific concepts; older kids may find it too basic or dated unless they're specifically into NASA/space topics.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Cooperative, educational tone with astronaut Naomi guiding players through space station tasks. Models scientific curiosity and teamwork without pressure or chaos. The zero-gravity movement and plant-growing missions create a calm, purposeful environment.

Imaginative

Explores the novel concept of zero-gravity movement and microgravity plant growth, which sparks curiosity about space science. However, the gameplay appears somewhat linear and task-based rather than open-ended creative exploration. Collecting mission patches adds mild gamification but limited imaginative freedom.

Safe

NASA-branded educational app with kids mode available. Common Sense Education describes it as 'safe and developmentally appropriate.' No ads, no social features, no monetization concerns. Entirely focused on educational content about climate and space science.

Enriching

Teaches real NASA plant growth experiments, microgravity physics, and why growing food matters for space exploration. Includes classroom and home educational materials. Upper-elementary focused content makes climate science accessible. However, as a 2016 Android app about a specific ISS experiment, it may feel dated and limited in scope compared to modern interactive science apps.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Actual NASA content teaching real microgravity plant experiments conducted on the International Space Station
Safe, ad-free educational environment with no monetization or social pressure
Zero-gravity movement mechanics offer a unique perspective on physics and space life
Includes supplemental classroom materials for extended learning at home or school
Mission patch collection system provides gentle motivation without addictive loops

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What to Watch For

Released in 2016 and Android-only—may be hard to access and could feel clunky compared to modern apps
More educational simulation than entertainment; kids expecting action-packed gaming will be disappointed
Relatively narrow scope focused on one specific ISS experiment rather than broader space exploration
Best for kids who already have some interest in space or science rather than casual users

Conversation Starters

"How do you think astronauts water plants without gravity pulling the water down?"
"What would it feel like to flip around a space station with no up or down?"
"Why is it important for astronauts to grow their own food in space instead of bringing everything from Earth?"
"What other experiments do you think scientists are doing on the space station right now?"

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