Painting Rocks for a Children's Project
- 1). Take the children on a nature walk or ask each child to bring in a flat, smooth rock large enough to paint. Wash the rocks. Allow to dry overnight.
- 2). Set out examples of finished rock paintings within the theme you're teaching. For a science theme, make a creature rock, such as a ladybug, complete with black spots, eyes and antennas; a phonics theme includes a rock displaying a child's name; while a holiday rock includes colorful hearts for Valentine's Day. Talk about the examples and encourage children to come up with new ideas staying within the theme.
- 3). Lay newspaper or craft paper on a flat surface. Give each child a water jar and paintbrush. Set colored paints in plastic bowls in the middle of the table. Double-up on colors so the children can reach without passing the paint. Put baby wipes in the center and encourage childen to wipe up spills and keep hands clean.
- 4). Pass out painting smocks to each child. Place a rock in front of each child at the table and ask that a first name go on the back of the rock. Explain the painting theme and ask that each child paints a rock significant to thatheme.
- 5). Help children paint shamrocks, leprechauns, a Blarney Stone or a pot of gold for St. Patrick's Day, for example. A Father's Day paperweight might display a tie, the words "I love you, Dad" or two stick figures holding hands. Halloween rocks include ghosts, spiders or colorful candies, for example. Walk around and talk to each child to see where the imagination is flowing.
- 6). Spray acrylic sealer on each rock. This helps prevent chipping and gives a glossy finish.
- 7). Plug in the glue gun. Wait five minutes until hot. Squeeze a drop of glue on the back of each rock. Place a magnet carefully on the glue and hold for five seconds. Allow to dry.
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