6 Tips For Getting Kids Into Rock Hunting
Despite having an exciting screen, many kids are more than willing to try new things with a bit of engagement. One of those things is rock hunting, which kids of all ages can enjoy.
But if you want to introduce your kids to this outdoor activity, you’ll need to take some steps to get them interested. Below, you’ll find six steps to get your kids into rock hunting.
To get kids interested in something, it helps to be interested alongside them. Educate yourself on some of the basics of geology so you’ll have something to tell them first. Rocks tell a lot of stories to those who know. Kids might be interested to know how old these rocks are or how they are made. They’ll be happy to keep bringing you more rocks if you can tell them cool facts.You don’t have to be a professor to educate your kids. Instead, pick up a book on the subject and start reading. You can also look up more information in the field using our Rock Identifier App.
To get kids interested in rocks, you need to find cool ones. You can get kids on the right foot by collecting some interesting stones before you start. Look for rocks that have interesting textures or unique shapes to them. You might have to spend some personal time digging through rocky spots. Seeing your work will encourage your kids to also work. If you can’t find any cool rocks nearby, bring your kids to a local rock shop. These shops will do some of the legwork for you. With this, you can let your kids know they’ll find similar stones with some work.
Using a rock hunter’s (sometimes called rockhounding) tools is part of the fun of learning something new. With rock hunting, this comes in the form of a rock pick hammer kit. Hammers, gloves, and chisels are fun to use for kids.
Teach your kids how to use them properly to avoid breaking rock formations. This is an excellent lesson in patience and understanding.
You don’t have to start with a multi-piece rock collection kit. Instead, start small with a hammer and chisel set. This way, if your kids lose interest, you won’t feel like you’ve lost a lot of money.
If you have always been interested in rock hunting, you might want to jump headfirst into the hobby. Even if your kids are interested in it, you’ll want to start small with your rock hunting. Spending three hours for your first rock hunt might be a bit overwhelming. Whether you have younger or older kids, you’ll need to pay attention when they lose patience. New hobbies and habits shouldn’t feel like work for your kids. With too much effort, your kids might quickly lose interest in the subject.
A geology book will provide a lot of fascinating information on rocks. Not only will it provide you with information, but you can also bring it into the field while identifying rocks. You can also use our Rock Identifier App to find out the same information without carrying an entire book. You can find geology books easily through online platforms. Amazon.com or Walmart can connect you with some valuable resources. You can even go to a rock museum if you want some extra information. Geology museums provide examples of these rocks in the field, letting you know what to look for.
When hunting for rocks, you might be encouraged to pursue them anywhere. When in the field, it’s best to follow best practices for field safety.To start, if you are hiking, stay near the trail. Have you and your kids bring a whistle just in case they get lost. If going to a park, you can ask park rangers for more specific advice. Always remain safe when looking for rocks.
Rock hunting can be fabulous for getting kids outdoors and giving them something to do. Whether you need to give your kids something to do or want a new way to connect with them, hunting for rocks is a great activity. To make this activity fun and educational, check out the Rock Identifier App for taking pictures of rocks and finding out more about them in the field.