This service learning project for kids promotes kindness with hand painted inspirational rocks they place in the community to lift spirits. Get kids thinking about others with the simple painted rocks that kids will feel proud to share with their community.

Supplies

• High Quality Acrylic paint such as Liquitex 
• Paint Brushes
• Rocks (you can find outside)
• Clear Gloss aerosol or polyurethane spray

Preparation

Start this activity by asking kids to gather rocks from an outdoor space.  The idea rock will be flat, smooth and larger than a half dollar. If you are in an area where these rocks are hard to come by you can purchase similar rocks at Walmart or other big box stores.

After you have the rocks, ask kids to think about what makes them feel good.  

• What have people said to you that made you feel special?
• What words are meaningful to you?

​Share with the kids that these rocks are not for them to keep, they are meant to brighten someone’s day.  To do this, kids will paint the rocks and then add an inspiring word or phrase to the rock, then they will place the rock outside in the community where people will see it.

Painting Kindness Rocks

To start have kids paint each rock in a bright colorful pattern. I suggest Liquitex paints, they are high quality and will hold up to the elements when you place the rocks outdoors.  Allow the rock to dry overnight.

The next day have the kids decide on a message they want to put on the rock.  Remember the size of the rock will determine how much you can write. After kids have decided on their message, have them write the message in pencil on the rock.  Next give them a black paint and paintbrush to add their message to the rock. Allow the rocks to dry.  When the paint is dry spray them with a clear gloss or polyurethane and let it set overnight.

Place Kindness Rocks in the Community

After all the rocks have been painted, take them out into the community and place them in landscaping or rock beds where people will see them and feel inspired.

You can take this activity a step further by involving local schools and families.  Communicate what you are trying to do and ask them to consider adding their own inspiration rocks to the community.