Journals of Caring
Why write in a journal? Most kids express feelings about their dreams and struggles. Show you care by designing a journal for a child living in a homeless shelter.
1. If you were homeless, what might you do every day to show your feelings? Many children write stories and poems in journals. They privately pour out their concerns and dreams about the future. Check with a local homeless shelter to see whether you (or your group) can create and donate journals for children who come to the shelter. Here’s one way to make these attractive gifts.
2. Create bright, colorful covers. Cut a posterboard rectangle for the front and back covers. Fold it in half. Draw a heart or other caring symbol on aluminum foil with Crayola® Gel Markers. Cut out your symbol with Crayola Scissors. Use a Crayola Glue Stick to attach it to the cover. Create imaginative designs, patterns, and words to decorate both covers.
3. Fill the journal. Glue several sheets of lined paper inside the journal. Imagine how much this journal will mean to a child in a homeless shelter. Add a personal, caring note if you wish.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.
Desk Organizer
All Aboard!
Off to Bed!
