An overscheduled family can be very difficult to manage. To solve this problem, try creating a family calendar. Choose a simple idea or a more elaborate theme depending on the specific family needs and talents. Use basic arts and crafts materials to turn this everyday item into a fun family project.
Reusable Calendars
To save money, materials, and other resources, families can design and create a reusable calendar. This type of calendar can be erased each month, and redesigned to fit the needs of the next month. There are two main ways to make a reusable family calendar.
- Chalk Board Calendar: This is a great way to involve very young children in the calendar making process. Purchase colored chalk at a craft or art supply store and use with a chalk board. Although the initial costs of the chalk and board may be a little high, these items will be reused month after month. Simply draw a grid that corresponds to the days in the month, and label it. For a more ornate chalk board, ask the children to draw colorful chalk creations in a monthly theme. For example, try April flowers, October pumpkins, or December presents.
- Dry Erase Board: This reusable board calendar project is very similar to the chalk board concept. Try this type of calendar process if there are older children in the family who are deemed responsible enough to properly handle dry erase markers. Avoid allowing young children to use the markers.
Monthly Themed Family Activity Calendars
An alternative to a chalk or dry erase calendar is to make a monthly themed calendar. These can be made out of large paper, poster board, or a covered bulletin board. Calendars of this type will need to be changed completely each month, therefore different colors of paper and a variety of art materials can be used.
- Large Paper: Large calendars can be made out of any type of paper materials that is easily available (and affordable). This may include butcher paper rolls, wrapping paper, construction paper, or even small paper taped together. Start by creating a calendar grid that corresponds to the days in the month. This can be done using markers, crayons, or even paints with a thin brush. Add month or season themed embellishments by using multiple art materials. Examples include tissue paper, glue, fake flowers, shiny or metallic papers, paints, craft feathers, sequins, or craft foam objects.
- Poster Board: Large poster board will provide a sturdy base for the family calendar. Like the large paper design, begin with a grid. After the grid is complete and labeled, add on extra themed art materials.
- Covered Bulletin Board: The covered bulletin board calendar can be similar to those found in many schools. Start with a blank board, and then (have an adult) staple a simple covering paper over top. Add on the month and days, and decorate to match the season.
Organizing Family Activities and Schedule
After the calendar is complete, it is time to add on the family schedule. One simple way to do this is through color coding. Choose one color for each family member. If there are multiple children fighting over a favorite color try drawing out of a hat or switching colors by month. Make sure to create a color and name key. For added understanding use initials with the color directly on the calendar.
Next, gather together each family member’s schedule for the month. This includes after school activities, days off from school, doctor and dentist appointments, important meetings, holidays, parties, and any other notable event.
Add each monthly schedule onto the calendar using the correct color and initial for that family member. After the schedule is complete, make sure to display the calendar in a prominent space such as the kitchen or family room.
Creating a unique calendar can help a busy family to become more organized while providing the opportunity to engage in a fun activity. Ask all family members to help design and produce the calendar together. When the project is complete, display it in a noticeable place for everyone to easily view.
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