STARTING A CLUB - THE BASICS

6. Running the Club - Club Content and Sustainability

If you've gotten to this point, you're ready for the fun to start! From here on out, it's all about keeping the kids engaged, inspired, and eager to come back. If a parent or teacher tells you that their kid can't wait for Thursday math club every week, then you know you're doing your job well. But this isn't as easy as it might sound, given the diverse range of abilities and personalities you're likely to find, and your goal is to make sure that every student, from the math whiz to the class loner, and even to that uninterested kid dragged in as a babysitting charge, gets something out of the club and has a good time.

Because this section is so important, we're taking extra care to compile the content in a clear and informative way. The remainder of this section will be available online soon, but for now here's a preview of the topics you can expect to see:

• Creating a cohesive focus
• Capturing and keeping attention
• Games that work
• The art of prize-giving
• Gauging and maintaining appropriate difficulty levels
• Making every kid feel important
• Inter-student relationships
• Communicating with parents and teachers
• Thanking your sponsors

And most importantly, remember to reach out to every child, stay enthusiastic, and have fun! You can be a great role model and older brother or sister to the kids in your club, and the bonds you form with them can provide some of the most rewarding moments for both of you.

Now you're ready to go put your plans into action. Check out the other features of Science Share Commons, such as the Resource Share, Forum, and Club Highlight, that are there for your use and enjoyment along the way, and we wish you all the best with your club!

Page last updated 06.06.08 by Serena Yeung