Create a topic-based blog. Many sites offer free, easy-to-use blogging platforms (see Resources). Encourage your child to choose an interest to research and write about. Blogging regularly about a specific topic can build a child's sense of confidence and expertise. For example, a blog about skateboarding could include updates on the child's progress as a skater, profiles of skater friends or skate heroes, reviews of skate media and products, local skate news and posts on the history of the board. Give your child an Internet safety lesson, and monitor the blog regularly to make sure content and comments are appropriate.
Create a picture book by folding a stack of paper vertically and, using a hole punch, punching three holes along the folded edge. Run a piece of ribbon through each hole. Kids can add their own text and pictures. For a high-tech version, consider online book building sites, where kids can create a PDF version of a book for a few dollars or have their own hardcover printed for less than $20 (see Resources).
Putting on a play provides diverse learning opportunities, from memorizing lines to building sets. Choose a script from your library or bookstore and make copies for each participant. To streamline the process, encourage kids to choose a director, a stage manager and a costume designer. To build critical thinking skills, ask kids to write journal entries from their characters' perspectives.
Encourage your child to choose, plan and cook meals. While letting kids loose in the kitchen may seem frightening, the benefits can outweigh the mess. According to author and culinary education expert Laura Colker, cooking develops math and science skills, creativity, literacy and social confidence. A sense of control over food also may neutralize picky eaters. For young kids, start with projects that don't require chopping, such as baking. And remind the kids that cleaning up is part of the cooking process.
Scholastic reports that "children who participate in after-school programs are more engaged in and have a better attitude about learning, perform better academically, and enjoy an increased sense of accomplishment, competence, and self-esteem." Check with your local library, museums or YMCA for free or low-fee workshops. For example, Project 826, a writing center for kids, offers free tutoring and workshops in an increasing number of cities (see Resources).