Computer programs and 'gadgets' can make a homemade book look very professional and can be a lot of fun to use. Give it a try and you will be surprised at how easy it really is.

You can use:

Word Processors
You can use a word processor such as MS Word to type in your child's stories and put in photos, clip art, or scanned artwork.

Publishing Programs
You can create books using a home or desktop publishing programs such as MS Publisher. Publisher has a 'catalogue template' that works well for making books. With this type of feature, illustrations can be scanned into the computer and the text added. The computer will print the pages correctly. We have included a book template that was created in MS Publisher.

Digital Cameras
Digital cameras are wonderful to use in literacy programs. The photographs can be put into word processing or publishing programs and then printed on a printer. We have put together an information sheet on what things to look for when you are buying a digital camera.

Scanners
You can scan in artwork or writing that your child has done and put it right in your word processing or publishing document. This is great when you want to make multiple copies of your books.