Works for Me - Summer Writing Journal

I had to think of something to get our first grader to keep writing all summer so I am making her a journal. I am not giving her a blank journal because I don't think the excitement would be there to write faithfully. Hopefully that will come in later years. For now I've got to pull out all of the bells and whistles to make her WANT to write.

I picked out a really cool journal :)

I graffitied the inside cover with an inspirational note from mommy, bible verses, and a cute little picture. I am also trying to work on more bible verses with her so this is a good combination. I know you can buy journals like this (with verses each day) but I wanted to show her that I put a lot of time into creating this, so she feels it is important. I also included a ribbon bookmark (taped it securely to the inside of the back cover) and adorned it with "made with love" charms.

On each page I included:

1. the date (I excluded formal weekends but left a few blank pages in case she wanted to write anyway)

2. a writing prompt or picture that she can write about

3. a bible verse

4. anything special about that day (birthdays, vacations, events).
With the left over pages I made an "Open Space" tab and will encourage her to draw pictures, make lists, tape in mementos, etc. Not only does it foster writing, it will be a great keepsake for summer memories.

I am hoping this works for us!

Check out more Works For Me Wednesday ideas at We Are That Family.