Day 18: Stack Rocks

Welcome to Day 18 of 31 Days of Backyard Nature Fun, a month-long series offering simple ways to get outside exploring the natural world. To see activities from earlier this month, head here.

Got rocks? Yeah … us, too. It seems we can’t even make it around the block without someone filling pockets with the things. Truth be told, I love that the boys find something unique and special with each and every new rock discovery they make.

One thing The Explorers like to do with their rocks is stack them. Yes, it’s fun to see what you can create and how high you can build. But it’s just as fun (if not more) to watch the rocks come tumbling down.

Day 18: Stack rocks.
If you don’t already have some rocks handy, now’s the time to go gathering in your backyard or neighborhood. You don’t need to collect very many, but it’s helpful to search for rocks in different shapes and sizes. (Be sure not to remove any rocks from private property.)

Once you’ve collected your rocks, choose a large (preferably flat) one to use as the bottom of the stack. Continue adding more, carefully balancing each on top of the next. Kids may also want to add other items from nature such as bits of bark and sticks.

While younger kids will be content with the challenge of balancing one rock onto the next, older kids may get artsy with it. The Big Explorer likes to create a story to go along with his stacked rocks. The one pictured above features a boat, iceberg and even a shark.

Need a few more ideas for things to do with rocks?

• Create rock necklaces 
• Go on a rock hunt 
• Make alphabet rocks  
• Paint rocks 

Just joining us? Catch up on what we’re up to at 31 Days of Backyard Nature Fun.