Summer is in full swing, and kids are enjoying all sorts of fun summer activities. With the busyness of the season, it can be easy to forget all of the exciting things that happened. This fun summer journal activity will ensure that kids slow down and savor all the wonderful summer memories.
This journaling activity can be adapted for all different ages, and it’s the perfect way to keep up with writing while school is out!
Materials:
white 8 in x 11 in paper
construction paper
coloring supplies
stickers (optional)
stapler
Step 1: Assemble the Journal
The first step is to create the journal. Decide how many pages you want in the journal. This may be fewer for younger children and more for older children. Fold the pages horizontally to create a book.
Next, choose one color of construction paper. Fold this in half horizontally and place it around the white pages, creating a cover.
Finally, add two or three staples along the crease to hold the pages together. It’s best to staple inward to prevent any possible staples from poking you while handling the finished journal!
Step 2: Decorate
Invite the kids to decorate the journal to make it their own. Write “_________’s Summer Journal” on the cover. Then use crayons, markers, stickers, and any other craft supplies to make it unique!
Step 3: Write
Encourage kids to use the journal to keep track of all the fun activities they did over the summer. You may wish to set aside a certain time of the day as “writing time.” Be sure to date each entry, write about what happened, and then draw a picture. You may even wish to print out photographs and glue them into the journal!
For particularly young children, it’s useful to take dictation. Have them produce their best writing attempt. After, ask them to read what they wrote while you write a clean copy on a sticky note or separate page. This models proper writing and also ensures you can read back the memories accurately in the future.
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At the end of summer, take a look back at all the fun things you did. This is a great way for children to reflect back on the summer and appreciate all the amazing things summer has to offer!
