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!
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.
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.
- Paint the back of the plate or leave it plain.
- Cut out the clock face and glue it on the back of the plate.
- Use a hammer and nail to punch a hole in the center.
- 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.
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DIY Sundial for Kids
You can easily create this DIY sundial for kids with items you already have at home.
Materials
- Free Printable Sundial Clock Face Template
- Paper Plate
- Pencil
- Paint & Brush (optional)
Tools
- Scissors
- Glue Stick
- Hammer & Nail
- Compass (optional)
Instructions
- If using, paint the back of the paper plate and let dry completely. If you're in a rush just leave the plate plain.
- Cut out the clock face and glue it on the back of the plate.
- Use a hammer and nail to punch a hole in the center.
- 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…
Bettijo Bridges
Administrator at Paging Supermom
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This sundial would not work. Please look up real sundials to see what they look like.
Good informationen
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.
Great crafting idea for kids, to make it work needs to decide the accurate reflection of the sun. Thanks for the article
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.