Students would have the responsibility of feeding the pet, making sure it receives fresh air and sunlight, cleaning its living space, etc. Teachers can ask students about their many family responsibilities at home and have students exhibit these responsibilities with the in-class pet. Having these duties will give the class a cohesiveness that is similar to a family unit. Teachers must be responsible for making provisions for the pet during the weekends and long term school breaks. Writing a journal can be made more fun if students make a journal with their families.
Most families travel to various places during the summer.
Younger children can learn the value of writing about special events by making a beach towel journal. Take a large white beach towel and use bright colored laundry pens to write about a favorite memory after each trip. All members of the family, children as well as their parents should get involved. The towel will last for years and students will want to read it over and over again. Have an indoor picnic with all of the family favorites.