Is it time to come up with something new for your young children to do? About this time every summer many households start to hear the same the same complaint, “There’s nothing to do!” There are plenty of opportunities for enjoying outdoor fun with your children.
Get them involved in a nature project using rocks and stones in your own back yard. Children can find rocks in many sizes, shapes and colors. Instead of telling kids to “put those down,” consider encouraging children to explore the rocks and how they can be used safely and creatively. A collection of ordinary rocks allows children to develop many important underlying math skills. Rocks can be classified (all of the big ones, small ones, round ones, flat ones). They can be matched (these two are alike, these three are the same). Similar rocks can be arranged in a sequenced fashion, from smallest to largest, or from lightest to darkest in color.
Keep in mind that all rock play needs to be closely supervised by an adult. Penn State’s Better Kid Care Program suggest clearly talking with children about safety rules. These may include such things as rocks can be built up, stacked, lined up, but not thrown or smashed. Wear shoes. Rocks should be easy to pick up; not too big or too heavy.
After children have collected their stones and rocks, bring out the washable, non-toxic tempera paints and paint brushes. They will have fun decorating their treasures. Then display their works of art in a special “rock garden” area in part of your yard. Brainstorm ideas with children on what might make a good rock garden. Penn State suggests looking at pictures of rock sculptures and natural rock monuments. Check your local library for books such as Stone by Andy Goldsworthy, or On My Beach There Are Many Pebbles by Leo Lionni. Another activity is to have children make a sign for the rock garden.
The National Wildlife Foundation recommends that parents give their kids a “Green Hour” every day, a time for unstructured play and interaction with the natural world. This can take place in a garden, a backyard, the park down the street, or any place the provides safe and accessible green spaces where children can learn and play. Check out www.Greenhour.org for more ideas on outdoor projects for your family this summer.