Grammy on the Go
By Karen Shadrach
Painting rocks with your grandchildren is not just a craft project—it’s a chance to slow down and be present with them. No screens. No rushing. Just paint, laughter and love. Painting rocks may seem like a small thing, but it opens the door to big moments which include creativity, mindfulness and connection. Kids get to express themselves with no pressure. There is no right or wrong way to decorate a rock! Rock painting is surprisingly calming and everyone quiets down, focusing on their tiny projects. We talked, we laughed, we made a mess. I learned about their latest school adventures and favorite shows, all while dabbing paint onto stone.
The set-up is simple and easy. All it took was a walk in the garden to gather a few smooth rocks, some acrylic paint, a handful of brushes, some sponges, permanent markers, and an old tablecloth to protect the table. I didn’t have to buy anything fancy. In fact, the simplicity of it was part of the charm. If needed, smooth rocks can also be bought at craft stores. Cleanup is even easier; all you need are paper towels and water!
Painting rocks with messages or designs is a fun, creative way to spread joy, inspiration and kindness. Here are some ideas of what to write on painted rocks: Uplifting words, such as “Dream,” “Hope, “Love.” Phrases, such as “Stay strong,” “You matter,” “Be kind.” Or, you could add fun or funny messages, such as “You rock!” and “Smile!”
Instead of words, the grandkids can paint simple flowers, rainbows, animals or holiday themes, such as hearts, pumpkins or snowflakes. On the back of the rock, you can add: Keep or re-hide – #KindnessRocks” or your social handle if you want to track them.
After the paint dries, use a brush or spray on a layer of Mod Podge or clear spray varnish to set the paint and preserve it for outdoor weather. The grandkids are now very anxious and want to “hide” their rocks around the neighborhood for others to find. Choose safe, and visible places to hide them and always be mindful of nature and local rules. Avoid protected parks or natural reserves unless painted rocks are permitted.
Good places to hide the rocks are the library, bus stops, playgrounds, public parks and along hiking trails and next to benches. In your neighborhood, place around bases of trees, by mailboxes and within rock gardens to leave a positive message to brighten someone’s day.
If you want, you can take a picture of each rock and where you have placed it. You will forget if you hide many! It can be fun to see if and when someone finds it.
Painted rocks can be used in many fun, creative and meaningful ways.
- Use your painted rocks for garden decorations, as they will add color to your garden or flowerpots. Paint them like ladybugs, bees, frogs, or turtles for a whimsical touch.
- Turn them into unique fridge magnets by gluing a small magnet on the back.
- Create a tic-tac-toe set with rocks or use them as pieces in a homemade board game. The grandkids may also like to paint different characters, animals, or objects to help them create and tell stories.
- Incorporate the painted stones to make a work of art by gluing small stones on a cardboard or canvas to create a scene.
So, if you are looking for an easy and meaningful activity to do with your grandkids, give rock painting a try. In a world that moves fast, an afternoon like this becomes a treasured memory. You will be surprised by how much joy a little stone can hold.
Photos by Karen Shadrach
