A simple planning binder may be used for children under 8 years old.   Parents may use the binder as they plan learning experiences for their children.  It is a great tool for weekly mentor meetings and children may record their learning experiences for later reference.  
Planner/Portfolio Supplies:   One 3 Ring Binder,  Divider tabs (two sets of 5 tabs), Printed copies of the forms below. ​
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Sample planner 
Click to set custom HTML

Portfolio/Planner Organization
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Tab 1:  Learning Goals:   Click and print the forms listed to the right to put in this section. These forms may be used for goal setting and calendaring:
  1. Quarterly Goals:  Identify learning experiences for young children to participate in during the next three months.  Include goals in each of the areas of heart, mind, might and strength.  Remember that the joy of participation is the key at this age.  ​
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Tab 2:  Calendars.  Calendars for children under the age of 8 can be very simple.  At this age, children can be introduced to the months, the days of the week, and how calendars are numbered.   Perhaps one page for each month so children can write the numbers for the days of the month.  They can record special events on their calendar, but their parents will maintain details for daily events on their calendar.  
Tab 3:  Life Skills.  This section of the portfolio includes a list of age-appropriate life skills children can work on.  They may receive an achievement pin each year for completing the list. 
Tab 4:  Experiences/Activities.  This section of the portfolio is to record learning experiences such as field trips, camps, concerts, etc.  Pictures are  a great way to enhance this section of the portfolio and offer a visual summary of children's growth and learning. 

​This section also can be used to maintain a list of books read, service experiences, leadership opportunities, and Life Skills.  Click on the buttons to the right to print a simple form to record these experiences.


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Tab 5:  Awards/Recognition.  This section is to record any awards or recognition that children may receive.  The Log file to the right is to list the awards.  Achievement certificates may also be presented at recognition evenings every three months.  Parents may design these on 8 1/2" x 11" paper to fit easily into the binder.   
Section 2:  5 Divider Tabs  (Optional)
Picture
Create a tab for each subject:  Language Arts, Math, History, Science.  Add additional tabs as desired. Learning benchmark lists, reading lists, and other resources may be filed in each section.