Rock Around the Clock!

This week’s idea helps children count in order from 1 to 12, recognize numerals, and begin to think about clocks. We wanted to make this age-appropriate, so we are not even adding hands to the child-made clocks. They are just for motivating our preschoolers to “rock around the clock.” By the way, that song has a fun and catchy verse that I liked to involve my students in singing!

Start by giving children a paper with numerals from 1 to 12 on it. If children are practicing using scissors, have them cut out these numerals. Alternately, you can cut them out for children. You can even ask, “What number would you like me to cut first?” This helps children think about the numerals. 

Next give children either a paper plate or a large round circle. If children are working on saying the names of numbers, you may want to lightly write the numbers on the circle. If children have a more advanced understanding of counting from 1 to 12, you can just put a dot where each number should be glued. 

Ask children to glue the numbers on the circle to form a clock. Remember, squeezing a glue bottle helps develop hand muscles for fine motor control.

Finally, have children point to the numbers in the direction a clock’s hands would move. They can say or whisper these numbers. It helps acquaint children with the idea of clocks and telling time. Encourage them to look at other clocks and note the similarities among them.

And remember - it's TIME to sign-up for our FREE weekly printable activities. We won't share your email with anyone. We will just send you teacher-tested school readiness fun!

Standards Alignment:
NAEYC – 2.C.03, 2.F.02, 2.F.07, 2.F.13

Head Start – I.D., VI.B., X.A.