Age group(s) for which this strategy is helpful:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School

Instructions for using this strategy:
Make a scrapbook that contains pictures of your child doing the summer work. Include samples that show his progress. Your child can share this book with others -- especially his new teacher, when school starts in the fall. You can also make videotapes of your child describing what he has learned. Doing this on a weekly basis creates a great story about the value and rewards of working hard in the summer.

Other information parents should consider:
You can use website development software to help your child create a personal web page, where summer work (articles, pictures, books read, etc.) can be posted. Family members or teachers can visit the web page, praising your child's work from a distance and keeping the energy flowing. Looking for an easy way to do this? Kids' art or writing can be submitted to LD Online. Or find a high-school "techie" who would enjoy helping your child create a website. Call the high school guidance counselor for potential students.

By Jerome J. Schultz, Ph.D.