Stone Age from i love dirt!

by melynda Email

Here is an activity from i love dirt! by Jennifer Ward.

Stone Age
Rocks are as old as the hills and mountains. Each rock, even a tiny grain of sand, has its own story involving travel and time, a history that is unique to it. Just what was that grain of sand once? Where did it come from? Spend time outside with your child and think about the history that could have been a rock's life.

Basically, Ward has you head outside and look at rocks. Compare textures, hardness, mineral content, colors etc. Try writing on the sidewalk with them. Get them wet. Then imagine where the rock came from and what its history is.

Igneous rock
Igneous rock near the Yellowstone River.

I would take this a step further with interested kids. Look up the three types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic and try to put the rocks into one of those categories. Or grab a rock guide and try to really narrow it down.

Call a geologist from a nearby university to find out what types of rock are common in your area. Your extension specialist might be able to help with that, too. There is a fascinating story locked up in every rock just waiting to be discovered.

Get the book!
Image from Amazon
I Love Dirt!: 52 Activities to Help You and Your Kids Discover the Wonders of Nature by Jennifer Ward

Image from Amazon
Simon & Schuster's Guide to Rocks & Minerals

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Book Review
Stone Age
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