How to make a Lifebook

A Life-book is a combination journal and photo album. The concept of a life-book was used when I worked with troubled teens. Often these kids have been shoved from one place or another. They either had no sense of family or little sense of themselves. These are the kids that came to treatment with all their precious belonging is shoe boxes or black trash bags.

Life books were constructed to help them put their items in an orderly fashion gave them more a sense of themselves and accomplishment. The books were to be started by the foster parent or social worker. The books then travel with the child wherever they go next, in hopes of keeping the book current.

But.. Life-books are for anyone!!! They are as easy or as hard to construct as you want. You can buy a formal photo album or make one. If your child/significant other is unable to construct a life book you can start one for them

Remember when you make a lifebook it is more about the process then the outcome, especially when working with a child. As that book is constructed be ready to listen as this child tells you everything about the picture, drawing or souvenir. This is a good time to reminisce with them as well. Great Bonds will be built when you share a memory with a child.

Birth Information. Include as much information as possible including the weight, time of birth and how their parents felt at the time.

Problems of the parents ( only use this if it applies) Discuss what led to the child being placed elsewhere other than their home. Be as straight forward as possible.

Photographs Include as much photos of the child's family that you can.

Use Maps. This can show where the child has been or perhaps where he/she wants to go in the future.

Include information about favorite friends, pets or activities based on each stage of their life.

Provide as much school information as possible, report cards, projects, favorite teachers, schools or classmates.

Health information. Provide as much health information as possible. Include allergies, shot information, any inherited medical problems.

Provide as much information as you can on Holidays and religious celebrations that were a part of their family. This may include cards they recieved form somone important.