To start the year, first graders are creating a painted rock garden on the Belmont Day School campus. First, the students entered the trails on a hunt for a rock that was just the right size and just the right texture for them to paint. Next, the rocks needed to be scrubbed clean. This simple, hands-on task allows the students to relax in the present moment and offers a sense of calm. Next, students will plan and sketch out what they want (and what will fit) on their rocks. Painting on the rocks will provide moments of mindfulness, as well as an opportunity for self-expression. An additional step will involve some democracy! The first graders will have to choose prospective locations on campus and vote on the rock garden’s final location.
The main goal of this endeavor is to grow our community and have a positive impact on the whole-school community. Look out for the BDS rock garden in the near future, and look for first graders beaming with pride at their accomplishment!
– Amy McCann, Geoffrey Fox, and Eunice Lee
