The write start - Jennifer Hallissy 2010

Command Central Message Board
Guidelines for the Activities

SOME DAYS IT SEEMS as if managing the comings and goings and communications among family members is a job best suited to a highly trained specialist. Part flight commander and part operations engineer, the family manager has to coordinate a multitude of details. The good news is that the same system that works for the most technically advanced agencies also works in our humble homes. I’m talking about creating a command central.

Admittedly low-tech, my version of a good mission control center accomplishes two things: relaying messages and organizing important data. And the best part is, it’s so simple that your kids can easily get in on the act. Less micromanaging for you, and more organization for everyone on the team. Oh, and another bonus, there’s writing involved too. As they jot down reminders, important dates, or messages, they are making writing-to-remember a daily habit, one that will serve them quite well now and in the future.

MATERIALS

∗ legal-size clipboards (one for each member of the family)

∗ painter’s masking tape

∗ latex wall paint in a different shade for each family member (I use the little paint samples available in hardware stores; darker colors work better for this project)

∗ sanded tile grout (about one-half cup)

∗ paintbrush

∗ blank labels

∗ markers

∗ cup hooks

∗ chalk

HOW-TO

1. Cover the binder clip on each clipboard with painter’s tape.

2. Create your own custom color chalkboard paint by mixing about one tablespoon of sanded tile grout into one-half cup of latex paint. Repeat for each paint color.

3. Paint the board part of each clipboard with the chosen color. Let them dry thoroughly. Remove the painter’s tape when the paint is dry.

4. Using blank labels and a marker, label the binder clip on each clipboard with a family member’s name.

5. Hang the clipboards on a wall using cup hooks.

6. Leave messages for each family member in chalk on his or her board. Use the binder clip to attach any related, time-sensitive items, like party invitations, event tickets, or driving directions.

Variations

For Scribblers: Post Scribblers’ works of art and some notes alongside their clipboard so they know their spot and will be ready to use it when the time comes.

For Spellers: Spellers are just learning to write little notes to family members. The clipboards provide a perfect way for them to distribute all of their correspondence.

For Storytellers: Prolific Storytellers can post their schoolwork and stories at the end of the day for everyone to read and enjoy.

For Scholars: Scholars are well equipped to use the message center to coordinate and communicate life’s daily details. For example, they can clip a permission slip to Mom’s board and write, “Field trip permission slip due Monday” (which Mom can then sign, clip on the Scholar’s board, and write, “Put in backpack; sounds like a great trip!”).