What paint do I use?
Use a base coat — a good primer should be sufficient. Regular acrylic craft paint can work, but outdoor/exterior acrylic paint is better (it adheres well to rock and is easy for kids to use). Avoid watercolor, washable tempera, or poster paint — they won’t hold up well outdoors.
Should I seal the rock?
It is not necessary. If you have the materials and want to come back 24–48 hours later once it is fully cured to do so, that is fine.
What if I need help painting?
We have a parent volunteer who is willing to help or paint the rock for you. More information on this will be in your confirmation email.
What if multiple children have the same birthday?
Our rock has 4 exposed sides and we encourage painting on all of them! More than one birthday to celebrate — share the cost amongst friends. Pick a lead person and have them make the reservation.
What can we paint on the rock?
Almost anything your creativity can come up with. Please keep it elementary school appropriate.
Are there any design restrictions?
No political/religious messaging, inappropriate language/images, commercial logos, etc.
What happens to the previous birthday design?
It gets covered. This is the nature of the rock so… Make sure to take a picture!! PTO will also try to get one and we will start building a gallery of all the past work.
What happens if it rains?
That is the benefit of a whole week rental. Hopefully there is a rain free window in which to paint, but we can’t make guarantees on nature. Does it look like bad weather all week? Reach out via millsriverschoolpto@gmail.com to see if we can swap your week.
Can teachers/staff have their birthdays celebrated too?
YES PLEASE! We love supporting and celebrating our staff.
Can a family pay for/paint the rock more than once?
Absolutely. You can rent the rock as many times as you want, we just ask that you allow space for other Rock Rentals as we do have a lot of students, teachers and staff in the school.