Rock Art Activity for Kids

For this activity, take the whole family on a rock hunt, then turn the rocks into works of art.

FamilyEducation Editorial Staff

Updated: December 1, 2022

Rock Art Activity for Kids

Age: 4 - 10 years
Time: One day, more or less
Type of Activity: Art

Materials needed:

Rocks (you can also use sea shells)
Sturdy box with lid (such as a shoe box)
Non-toxic finger or tempura paints
Poster board
Paint brushes
Scrap fabric or felt
Pipe cleaners, eyes, and other decorative items (optional)
Glue (optional)

What to do:

Gather up your family for a walk at your local beach or park. While there, go on a rock hunt. Look for all different kinds, shapes, and sizes of rocks to put in your box.

Once you're back home, wash and dry your rocks. Now it's time to pull out the paints. You and the kids will probably want to wear an old T-shirt or smock to protect your clothes from the paint. Be creative and paint your rocks (try a spider, fish, or a funny face -- whatever strikes your fancy). Place the painted rocks on the poster board to dry. You can also choose to glue pipecleaners, eyes, or any other decorative item onto your painted rocks.

In the meantime, shake out your box. Line it with a pretty piece of scrap fabric or felt. When your "rock art" is dry, place them back in the box as a gift for Mom, Dad, Grandparents, or friends, or make a "Rock Art" garden in your yard.