Skipping stones
A classic, calming outdoor activity that’s all about focus, coordination, and the joy of watching ripples dance across the water.
Sometimes the simplest activities make the deepest impact. Skipping stones is one of those. There’s something meditative about standing at the edge of a creek or lake, searching for the perfect flat stone, and watching it hop across the surface.
Whether you manage one skip or just love the splash, this is a calm, nature-filled way to practise coordination and patience - for all ages.
You don’t need anything but water, stones, and a moment to slow down together.
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Head to a natural spot with calm water and stone access.
Step 2:
If wanting to skip them, find some flat, smooth stones. Otherwise just collect any rocks to throw and make ripples in the water.
Play
Step 1:
Hold the stone with your thumb on top, and fingers underneath.
Step 2:
Flick your wrist sideways and low to the water’s surface.
Step 3:
Count the number of times it skips across the water's surface - or just enjoy the splash and ripples.
Extend
Stone Hunt: Turn it into a scavenger hunt for the best skipping stones.
Build towers: Gather some stones and stack them as high as possible - or build your own stone city
Rock art: Bring home a few stones to decorate with chalk or paint.
