Over the years, diehard sci-fi fans intuitively knew one of the greatest parts about the Star Trek saga is that there was always a next generation.

From the original television show in the 1960s to the latest film series starring Chris Pine as James T. Kirk, the universe has now been thrilling fans on screen for more than 50 years.

Now, with director/producer J.J. Abrams in the captain’s chair, the franchise has been given a new life in recent years.

The new movies have re-invigorated the Star Trek franchise, and many young fans alike are now getting their first experience aboard the USS Enterprise with Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, Leonard “Bones” McCoy, Uhura, Scotty and Sulu.

The newest chapter, Star Trek Beyond, directed by Jeremy Lin, will be released July 22. Now is the time to get your young ones excited about Star Trek. Here are a few ideas to ensure they will be awaiting the new release as much as you before they enter the cinema to boldly go where no man has gone before.

Relive the Past

There’s no better way to get ready for the new movies than to watch the characters from the past. With so many options, there is sure to be a film your kids will love. The only problem might be that some of the oldest versions will seem very dated to young moviegoers.

But unlike another popular movie franchise, Star Trek has always been more about the high-level themes and morality than space chases, fights and lightsabers.

For that reason, classics like The Wrath of Khan and The Final Frontier still hold up, and the messages within each film even make great conversations over dinner. And if you don’t think those films will be exciting enough, there are always the previous two installments from J.J. Abrams.

Star Trek Games

There are many video games and boardgames with a Star Trek theme, and this can be a great way to introduce your kids to the characters, spacecraft and worlds you already know and love.

But with so many different societies, it can be hard to keep track of who’s who — it can even get confusing on the increasingly crowded Enterprise.

Unfortunately, some of these games are old or expensive — and thus hard to get your hands on.

But there are other, easier options that can be even more fun. BusyTeacher.org offers a word puzzle as a free activity that parents can print out and customize to fit a desired Star Trek theme. It’s fun for all ages and will be just the thing to familiarize everyone beforehand.

Hit Up a Sci-Fi Convention

While the shows and films are the forward-facing emblems of Star Trek, its fans are why the franchise has been so popular for so long.

Before ComicCon and anime festivals, there were Trekkies. These passionate fans created the culture that has allowed this franchise to carry on so successfully for over half a century.

To show your kids what it’s really all about, take them to a Star Trek Convention. With such a rapid fan base, there are plenty of sites to choose from in the next few months.

So, buy your set of pointy ears now, head to your nearest con, and never forget to live long and prosper!

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