Creative writing is an important and often overlooked part of a comprehensive curriculum. Many times parents tend to focus on the broader aspects of math, science, social studies, and language. While these are all worthy of attention and are certainly important in a child’s education, we need not neglect the more specific and creative aspects of their learning. Check out these great ideas about how you can help your little one embrace the creative writing process.
- Read – Reading and writing go hand in hand. Your kiddo will probably never desire to create tales of their own if they are rarely exposed to good stories at home. Carve out a few minutes each day to read aloud to your little one.
- Provide Writing Supplies –Keep writing utensils such as pencils, markers, crayons, pens, and paper in an accessible and inviting space. Even if your child isn’t old enough to write full sentences, she can use the supplies to draw as well as practice letters and words.
- Create Opportunity – In addition to providing the appropriate supplies for writing, parents can also create opportunities for writing. Dedicate a certain time each day for creative writing. Even if it only lasts for 15 minutes, the fact that you set aside time in the daily schedule communicates that writing is valuable.
- Foster Vocabulary – Your child will never learn a new word without first hearing that word. Be intentional about nurturing your child’s vocabulary. The best way to do this is through reading. You can also play word games together. For instance, if your son says that something is cold, you could ask him if he can think of other words that mean the same thing as cold.
- Poetry – There are many different aspects to creative writing. Your child may not enjoy writing a story, but love to create rhymes. Make sure your kiddo is exposed to poetry by providing books of poems for her to read. She might be inspired to create a poem of her very own!
- Make use of Technology – Most kids today are tech savvy. Your child might enjoy typing rather than handwriting something creative. Older children and teens may enjoy beginning a blog or contributing to online fan fiction.
- Start Early – We cannot over emphasize the importance of beginning the process sooner rather than later with your child. If you wish to raise a kid who loves writing, begin nurturing these qualities at a young age.
There are so many fun and easy ways to begin fostering the creative writing process in your child. One or two little changes or opportunities may be all it takes to bring the writer to life in your little one. If you’d like some more ideas on how you can raise a kid who loves to write, check out Red Apple Reading’s writing and poetry boards on Pinterest.
