Welcome to the Junior Rockhound Program, a unique initiative by Friends of Mineralogy New Jersey designed for young geology enthusiasts!
About Our Program
Our Junior Rockhound Program is designed to spark the curiosity of young minds (ages 7-17) and instill in them an enduring fascination for the geological wonders that surround us. We believe that every stone has a story, and our mission is to help our junior rockhounds uncover these captivating tales.
Through a blend of education, hands-on activities, and exciting field trips, our junior members delve deep into the realm of rocks and minerals. They learn about different geological formations, discover how to identify various types of rocks and minerals, and even start their very own collections!
Activities and Workshops
We offer a variety of learning experiences, primarily centered around interactive classroom sessions that make understanding geology both engaging and enjoyable. Within the classroom setting, our Junior Rockhounds delve into the intricate world of geology, exploring and studying various specimens. Through hands-on lessons, participants learn how to clean, classify, and store their finds, thereby creating their own personal mineral collections. Although field trips are part of the program, our primary emphasis lies in instilling a comprehensive understanding of geology through in-class instruction and activities.
Badge Program
The Junior Rockhound program encompasses twenty distinct areas of study. Each area will be thoroughly explored over multiple sessions. Throughout this period, participants are given the opportunity to earn badges by accomplishing three activities, some of which will be undertaken during the sessions, while others will be home-based assignments.
Here's an overview of each badge that participants can aspire to earn:
Rocks & Minerals: This badge involves identifying, classifying, and understanding the formation of various rocks and minerals.
Earth Resources: This badge focuses on learning about the earth's natural resources, their locations, extraction, and uses.
Fossils: This badge explores the science of paleontology, understanding how fossils are formed and what they tell us about the earth's past.
Lapidary Arts: This badge introduces the art of cutting, shaping, and polishing stones and gemstones for decorative purposes.
Collecting: This badge requires the collection and proper organization of geological specimens.
Showmanship: This badge focuses on the display of collections, including best practices in preparation, labeling, and presentation.
Communication: This badge involves effective communication about geological topics, either through written, verbal, or digital mediums.
Field Trips: This badge promotes practical, hands-on learning through trips to geological sites and participation in fieldwork.
Leadership & Citizenship: This badge emphasizes developing leadership skills, participating in group activities, and understanding the role of a responsible citizen.
Earth Processes: This badge involves understanding geological processes like plate tectonics, erosion, and weathering.
Earth in Space: This badge explores earth's place in the solar system and the effects of celestial bodies on our planet.
Gold Panning & Prospecting: This badge introduces the history and techniques of gold panning and prospecting.
Gemstone Lore & Legend: This badge explores the history, myths, and cultural significance associated with various gemstones.
Stone Age Tools & Art: This badge focuses on the history and techniques of making and using stone tools, as well as stone age art.
Rocking on the Computer: This badge involves using digital resources and technology for geological research and exploration.
The World in Miniature: This badge promotes the study and appreciation of micro-minerals and microscopic features of larger specimens.
Special Effects: This badge explores unique mineral properties like iridescence, chatoyancy, asterism, and more.
Fluorescent Minerals: This badge focuses on minerals that exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light, understanding the science behind this phenomenon.
Reaching Across Generations: This badge emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge across generations and learning from experienced rockhounds.
Maps: This badge involves understanding and using different types of maps for geological exploration and collection activities.
Get In Touch
Curious about our program or need more information? Reach out to us at junior.rockhounds@geology365.com. We're always ready to assist budding geologists in their journey of exploration.
Follow Us On Facebook
Join our facebook page to keep up to date with upcoming meetings and field trips. https://www.facebook.com/junior.rockhounds
Become a Junior Rockhound
Unearth the fascinating world of geology, make new friends, and let's rock this world together! To join the Junior Rockhound Program, email us at junior.rockhounds@geology365.com!
At Friends of Mineralogy New Jersey, we are thrilled to help foster the next generation of geologists. Come, be a part of our Junior Rockhound Program and start your journey into the captivating world of rocks and minerals!
