Start a Community Snake Rock Train!
Looking for a fun summer activity that sparks creativity, gets kids outdoors, and builds community? Start a community rock train! It's a simple, engaging project that everyone can enjoy!
What's a Rock Train?
A community rock train begins when someone decides to line up painted rocks. It usually starts with a head rock (often painted like a snake's head) and a sign that invites people passing by to add their own decorated rocks. Some rock trains even have a "tail" rock (like a rattlesnake's shaker) that gets moved to the end as the train grows!
You can set up a rock train almost anywhere: along a walking path, outside a school, or even in front of your house. Just remember to get permission if you're placing it on public or private property that isn't your own.
Step 1: Create Your Starting Rock
Your first step is to paint the starting rock. This will be the "head" of your train. I chose a snake head, but you can get creative! Maybe you'd prefer a caterpillar chain instead of a snake train? It's all up to you!
Acrylic paint is the the most readily available for this project. Just be careful that it will not wash out of clothes once dry!
If you are concerned about the paint chipping, you can use a clear acrylic sealer.
Below are progress pictures for two different types of painted snake heads: a side view of the snake head and full snake head. When decided which route to go, consider the shape of the rock you will be painting on.
As you will see, I used black acrylic paint to create outlines. Permanent Markers can also be used on dry paint.
A hair dry can be used to speed up the drying process in between layers.
Step 2: Make Your Sign
A sign is essential to let people know how your rock train works. Here are some ideas for your sign's text to get you started:
Watch Us Grow! Contribute a painted rock and help us make the longest, most vibrant rock snake in town!
A Path of Positivity! Help us create a beautiful, inspiring rock snake. Paint a rock and add it today!
Don't Hiss Out! Add your painted rock to our winding community rock snake train.
Ready for a S-S-S-uper Fun Activity? Join our rock snake train with your creative rock!
The Rock Snake Needs YOU! Add your decorated rock to our ever-growing train of community art.
Want to give your rock snake a fun name? Here's some inspiration:
Rocky the Snake
Wiggles the Snake
Sunny the Snake
Sparkling Stella the Snake
Smiling Sydney the Snake
If you're going with a caterpillar instead, try these names:
Coco the Caterpillar
Charming Charlie the Caterpillar
Colorful Casey the Caterpillar
When making your sign, think about the weather. It's a good idea to laminate it with adhesive plastic or clear tape to protect it from the elements.
Depending on the location, you may need to attach a small, wooden stake to the sign so that in can stand in the ground.
Step 3: Choose Your Location
Now it's time to set up your community painted rock train! Don't forget to bring a few of your own painted rocks to get the line started.
No outdoor space available? You can also create an indoor rock train! Think about places like a library, community center, or church. Just be sure to ask for permission before setting up your display.
