How to Make a Sundial + Summer Activities

I love this sundial craft for kids because my kids thought it was super cool and there are all kinds of great educational tie ins. Today I am sharing a free printable template to help you make this easy Sundial craft with your kids!

How-To-Make-A-Sun-Dial

Schools out around here, and we are on the hunt for fun, summer activities to keep the kids busy. We created this free printable sundial to share in the June 2015 issue of Raising Arizona Kids magazine. It is the perfect project for a sunny, summer day.

Raising-Arizona-Kids-June-2015-Craft

how do sundials work

This sundial project is a perfect activity to go along with learning to tell time. In fact, if you’re working on telling time don’t miss my “What Time Is It?” free printable worksheet.

Naturally as you are making this sundial kids craft, you’re little inquiring minds will want to know how sundials work. I found this great SciKids video on YouTube that does a great job explaining how sundials work.

Sun Dial Craft Instructions

You can easily create this sundial with items you already have at home — essentially just a paper plate, pencil and our free printable sundial clock face.

  1. Paint the back of the plate or leave it plain.
  2. Cut out the clock face and glue it on the back of the plate.
  3. Use a hammer and nail to punch a hole in the center.
  4. Stick a pencil through the hole—then head outdoors!

Be sure to position the sundial with the “12” pointing north to determine the current time.

Free Printable to make this Easy Sundial from @PagingSupermom

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How To Make A Sun Dial

DIY Sundial for Kids

Yield: 1 Sundial
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Cost: Practically Free

You can easily create this DIY sundial for kids with items you already have at home.

Materials

Tools

  • Scissors
  • Glue Stick
  • Hammer & Nail
  • Compass (optional)

Instructions

      1. If using, paint the back of the paper plate and let dry completely. If you're in a rush just leave the plate plain.
      2. Cut out the clock face and glue it on the back of the plate.
      3. Use a hammer and nail to punch a hole in the center.
      4. Stick a pencil through the hole—then head outdoors!

Notes

Obviously you need to take your sundial outside to use it. Be sure to position the sundial with the “12” pointing north to determine the current time.

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More Kid-Friendly Summer Activities

Be sure to pin this post for later and check out our Summer Pinterest board full of fun ideas like these…

Make a Pool Noodle Boat
Free Printable Water Gun Targets
DIY Glowing Dive Sticks

Bettijo Bridges

Administrator at Paging Supermom
Bettijo is the founder and designer of Paging Supermom where she shares creative ideas for family fun. Known for practical and kid-friendly activities, free printables and holiday entertainment. Bettijo was a guest on the Martha Stewart Show and has frequently appeared on local TV. Her work has also been featured in national magazines including Real Simple, O, Redbook, Parents, Family Circle, and Health. She enjoys art, retro-modern design, photography and making new things. Mom of 4 kids.

9 thoughts on “How to Make a Sundial + Summer Activities”

  1. It didn’t work. I did a bit more research and wow this isn’t even close to what an actual working sundial looks like. Shame.

    Reply
  2. This can be a fascinating DIY project! It’s not only a great way to learn more about the passage of time and the Earth’s rotation but also a fun and educational activity for all ages.

    Reply
  3. Why ISN’T this a ‘real’ sundial? I’m curious about the other comments. (And sorry this is coming out in all caps! Idk why. Annoying to me too.)
    I’ve purchased beautiful sundials for my garden and is basically the same, just a craft one for kids. Growing up and to this day, we create one (with just a stick in the beach sand) and it always ‘works!’ Just Don’t need a hammer and a nail, IMO
    Thank you for the free printable.

    Reply

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