Stonewall elementary school students created lasting mementos destined to travel across the country through a rock-solid creative project.
Pictured are some of the painted Manitoba-themed rocks
A Grade 2 class at École R.W. Bobby Bend School recently embraced its creativity through a rock-painting initiative. Their colourful creations will serve as made-in-Manitoba gifts for delegates attending Canadian Parks and Recreation Association meetings in Manitoba from May 31 to June 2.
“We encouraged the children to paint things they love about Manitoba, but they were also welcome to use their own creativity and imagination in their artwork,” said teacher Kaylee Wilson.
“The students have been very excited about the project and are really enjoying the opportunity to express themselves creatively. They especially love choosing their designs and seeing their ideas come to life on the rocks.”
At the same time, the activity offered opportunities for learning and reflection.
“This activity also ties into the curriculum by encouraging creativity, self-expression, fine motor skills and discussions about community and the things that make Manitoba special to them,” she said.
“One of the biggest benefits of getting involved in projects like this is giving students an opportunity to connect with their community while building confidence and pride in their work.”
Laine Wilson, a Manitoba representative on the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association board and director of community relations for the RM of Rockwood, provided the rocks and painting supplies for the project. She is wrapping up her final term after a six-year commitment to the organization, making it especially meaningful to host her colleagues in her home province.
“June is Parks and Recreation Month, so it’s the perfect gift for my fellow board members coming to Winnipeg for our meetings,” said Wilson, adding that Rockwood council has been supportive of her work at the national table. “This way, they can take back with them a piece of Manitoba to every province and territory.”
Emily George, executive director of Recreation Manitoba, said representatives from all 13 provinces and territories visited Manitoba, including a staff member and a board member from each jurisdiction.
The visit centred on board meetings, the organization’s annual general meeting and awards presentations. Many visitors also took in local attractions before and after the meetings, which were held at The Forks and the Sport Manitoba Building. Other highlights included attending a Goldeyes game and visiting the Centre of Canada sign and Birds Hill Park.
“This group meets twice a year in person and virtually four times throughout the year. The spring meeting rotates between provinces on a newly established hosting schedule, while the fall meeting is always held in Ottawa to coincide with our Advocacy Day on Parliament Hill,” she said.
“At these meetings, there is always a local touch to remind the group of the impact of recreation at the grassroots level. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do and why it matters.”
The meetings also serve as a reminder that while each province and territory has a different approach, as well as unique strengths and challenges, they are united in their commitment to working collaboratively.
The visitors were pleased to receive the painted rocks and looked forward to bringing them home to their communities, where they can continue the painted rock tradition.
