Shadow Tracing and Sun Science Activity
Trace the shadow of an object at different times of day and watch it change. A simple experiment that teaches your child how the sun moves across the sky.
What You'll Need
- 1Small toy or stick (upright)
- 2Large white paper or poster board
- 3Tape or modeling clay
- 43 different colored markers
- 5Sunny outdoor spot
What You'll Need
A small toy or stick that stands upright
Large white paper or poster board
Tape or modeling clay to secure the object
3 different colored markers
A sunny outdoor spot
How to Play
Place a toy or stick upright on white paper in a sunny spot. Secure it with clay or tape.
At 9 AM, trace the shadow outline in one color. Write the time.
Return at noon and trace in a second color.
Return at 3 PM and trace in a third color.
Compare: "The shadow moved! Long in the morning, short at noon, long in the afternoon."
Discuss: "Why did it change?" The sun is moving across the sky — shadows follow.
Predict: "Where will the shadow be tomorrow morning?" Test it.
The Science Behind It
Shadows change because the Earth rotates, making the sun appear to move across the sky. When the sun is low (morning and afternoon), shadows are long. When it's high (noon), shadows are short. Your child can't see the Earth spinning, but they can see its effect — and that's the magic of this experiment.
Tips
Choose a spot that stays sunny all day. Avoid areas that get shaded by buildings or trees.
Use a tall, thin object for the clearest shadow. A pencil stuck in clay works perfectly.
Wind can blow the paper — weigh down corners with rocks.
Don't explain the science first. Let your child observe the changes and try to figure out why. Their explanations, even if wrong, are valuable scientific thinking.
This activity spans a whole day, which teaches patience and sustained investigation. Mark it on the calendar so you remember to go back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 30 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: small toy or stick (upright), large white paper or poster board, tape or modeling clay, 3 different colored markers, sunny outdoor spot.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 3-6 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Does this need to be done outdoors?
This activity is best done outdoors where kids have space to move and explore.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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