How to Make an Easy Paper Plate Clock Craft: A Fun Way to Teach Time

Learning to tell time can be a tricky concept for little learners, but adding a hands-on element makes it so much more engaging. This paper plate clock craft is a staple in my Prep (Kindergarten) classroom because it transforms an abstract idea into something students can physically manipulate. Whether you are working on o’clock, half-past, or just introducing the clock face, this DIY teaching clock is the perfect tool to bridge the gap between play and math. Plus, it’s a great way to work on those fine motor skills!

Why Use a Paper Plate Clock Craft for Teaching Time?

In the early years (Foundation, Prep, Kindergarten), students need to move and touch to truly understand new concepts. A paper plate clock allows them to:

• Physically move the hands to match a digital time.
• Visualise the relationship between the hour and minute hands.
• Take ownership of their learning by creating their own personal math tool.

Materials Needed

To get started, gather these simple classroom supplies:

• A sturdy paper plate (bright colours work best!)
• The Free Clock Template Download (grab it below!)
• A split pin (brad)
• Scissors and a glue stick

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Your Paper Plate Clock Craft

Follow these simple steps to create a functional teaching clock with your students.

Step 1: Gather your pieces

Start by cutting out the numbers 1 through 12 and the two clock hands from the template. It helps to have these ready to go before you start gluing!

Step 2: Start with the “Anchor” numbers

To keep the clock face even, I always recommend gluing the 12, 3, 6, and 9 first. This acts as a guide so the rest of the numbers don’t get bunched up.

Step 3: Fill in the gaps

Once your anchors are in place, glue the remaining numbers in their correct spots. This is a great opportunity to practice counting and number recognition.

Step 4: Prepare the clock hands

Use a split pin to poke a hole through the centre of both the hour hand and the minute hand. Then, carefully poke a hole through the very centre of your paper plate.

Step 5: Assemble and play!

Push the split pin through the hands and the plate, then secure it at the back. Ensure the hands are loose enough to spin easily. Your clock is now ready for some “Time Telling” fun!

Paper Plate Clock Craft – Teacher Tips for Success

• Colour Coding: Try printing the hour hand and the minute hand on different colored paper. This helps students distinguish between “Short Power” (hours) and “Long Power” (minutes).
• Minute Markers: For older students, you can have them write the minutes (05, 10, 15…) around the very edge of the plate to help with “past” and “to.”
• Storage: Have students keep their clocks in their math folders or bins so they can pull them out for quick “show me” warm-up games during your math block.

Grab Your Free Clock Template!

Want to skip the prep and get straight to the fun? I’ve created a free printable template with perfectly sized numbers and clock hands for your paper plate projects.

Enter your details below, and I’ll send the PDF straight to your inbox so you can start building with your little learners today!

More Kindergarten Math Inspiration

If your students loved this hands-on clock craft, they will enjoy these other engaging math activities designed for little learners. You can find my full library of Kindergarten Math Blog Posts & Activities here, or check out these classroom favourites:

• Number Sequencing Cut and Paste – A fantastic way to build confidence with number order from 1 to 50 using a tactile, hands-on approach.
• Shake and Spill Math Game – A classroom favourite for teaching composing and decomposing numbers. It’s simple, effective, and kids love the “shake” part!
• Jellyfish Number Craft – This freebie is perfect for practising numbers 1–10 while sneaking in some essential fine motor work.
• Shape Detective Activity – Take your math lesson on a “shape walk” around the school! This mini-book and crown set makes 2D shape recognition an adventure.