How To Make A Paper Pocket Watch

Over the past few weeks, Mr4 has become increasingly interested in telling the time. He has been eyeing the clock, noting what time particular things happen and letting me know when I’m running late!

We made this simple Pocket Watch as a play accessory but also as a learning tool. To begin with, we are learning o’clocks! Having a big wall clock made a huge difference, making it easy for Mr4 to count, compare and learn.

We practiced moving the hands to each hour of the day, talked what happens at each hour, and discussed the difference between the big hand and the little hand.

Remember to move at your child’s pace. Time telling is a complex skill, which your child will build on & begin to understand over the coming years. For now, we are enjoying the pretend play.

Learn through play & make your own Paper Pocket Watch! 

>>> How To Make A Paper Pocket Watch

Age: 4+
Time: 30 mins

You’ll Need:

Cardstock
Pipe Cleaner (x2 colours)
Yarn
Water Paint
Paintbrush
Pen
Scissors
Glue Stick

To Make:

1 // Using a cup as a guide, trace around the edge onto a piece of cardstock. Then trace another circle directly beside it, leaving a small gap in between. You will need to add an additional loop to the top of the right circle; this is where you will attach the yarn. Alternatively you can find a pocket watch template online.

2 // Cut out the pocket watch, ensuring not to cut between the circles.

3 // Trace around another cup, slightly smaller than the other onto a piece of cardstock and cut out, this will be your clocks face.

4 // Paint or decorate the inside and outside of your pocket watch however you like! We used a range of water painting techniques to create a bright, colourful watch!

5 // Once dry, draw the watch face on the smaller circle and glue on the right side of the watch.

6 // Poke a hole in the center and push through two pipe cleaners; ensuring one is slightly smaller than the other. Then fold each end flat against the paper on both sides. Your clock arms will now be able to twist around!

7 // Punch a hole into the top of the watch and thread through the yarn, tying a knot at the end.

It’s highly unlikely your preschooler will ever be late again with his brand new pocket watch! Be prepared though, for the rest of the day and thereafter you will most likely hear “tick tock, tick tock” or “QUICK! Its 3 o’clock! Time to get the boys from school!” Happy Crafting!

For more from @oliviasfoster, you can find 10 Essentials For Your Craft Box, and 3D Wall Art Letters.

>>> How do you introduce the concept of time with your nanny children + preschoolers?

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Olivia is a full time career nanny based in Sydney, Australia. She is passionate about children and child development. She uses creative and fun activities to develop teachable moments. Olivia shares an insight into her ‘nanny life’ on her social media accounts. You’ll find Olivia on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest at @oliviasfoster, sharing Arts, Craft & Activities for Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers. Up next for Olivia is the exciting launch of her website ‘A Crafty LIVing’, coming soon!