Writing

Integrating writing into daily routines can help students see writing as a tool, rather that just a task or assignment.  Encouraging regular writing can help improve writing skills as well as stamina and confidence.  Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate or encourage writing at home.

• Write Letters - This could be to a family member near by, or something you send in the mail to a family member or friend.  It's a great way to create some excitement for writing when letters are exchanged back and forth!

• Create a Scavenger Hunt - Either on their own, or with the help of another, have your child hide items and write clues to help you find the hidden treasures.

• Leave notes for each other  - Encourage writing with short notes.  Use post-it notes to leave thoughtful notes, jokes, or questions for each other.  Encourage the use of complete sentences.

• Keep a Highlight Journal - Write the best part of your day

• Keep a Gratitude Journal - Write what you are thankful for each day

• Create a To-Do List  - This could be daily or weekly, or even in preparation for a special event.

• Write a Story - You can create your own or create a new ending to a favorite book or movie.  Students could also create a new "episode" of their favorite TV show.

• Invent a Game - Write down the directions to your new game.

• Family Notebook - Put a notebook in a central place in the house that family members can write in.  This could be used in a variety of ways.  Examples:  A question could be written on top of a page each day and family members can answer it on the same page.  Keep an ongoing list of words of kindness for each other, jokes, or write about events that happened during the day.  Begin a story.  Family members can add to the story over a period of time.  

•  Use Writing Prompts - Write using prompts from one of the links below.