Reading and literacy are very popular and large focus in communities, libraries and schools. We all emphasize the importance of reading but we often forget to encourage the other part of literacy - writing.
Mastering writing skills can provide endless rewards. Here are some ways to help our kids become more excited about and become better writers:
Get your young writer a journal. Journals are a special place for writers to get their thoughts and ideas on paper with no rules. Punctuation and grammar are not the main focus. When journal writing becomes a habit, other kinds of writing improve.
Establish a writing time in your home. Designate a block of time that is dedicated to writing on a weekly basis. It could be as simple as Sunday evening before or after dinner for 30 minutes. During this time the kids write--practice is necessary to build any skill and that includes writing. If they need a little motivation, you can write also. There no better way to send a message than setting an example.
Write about favorite books. Reviewing books is a great way to practice short-form writing for writers of any age. Have your young writer choose one or two of their favorite books and then write two to three sentences about what makes it a favorite.
Submit to writing contests. Search online for “writing contests for kids” to find resources to explore. There are contests that are open to accepting a variety of writing styles and topics. Encourage your young writer to submit a piece.
Above all, keep in mind that writing does not have to be a burdensome chore or extra homework. Instead, make it an opportunity to engage your young learner in a skill set they will need in the future.
