I've hands and feet and features fine,
For some I even tell the time;
I'm sometimes seen upon the moon,
Many seek me out at noon.

I walk with you each pleasant day,
I chase the children when at play -
They cannot catch me, though they try,
Yet they're as fleet of foot as I.

Whene'er the morn is clear and bright,
My form towers to a wondrous height;
But when the dinner hour is nigh,
More broad and short and thick am I.

If before you I proceed,
And if you wish to take the lead,
Just turn and go the other way,
Or wait for a different time of day.

Answer:

SHADOW