Writing Suggestions

Kids need structure. We (parents) hear that all of the time regarding eating and sleeping patterns, but what about writing? Yep, they need structure with writing too. Writing is a crucial component to academic success. And, many children struggle with it, whether it be the motor component (handwriting, grip on pencil, etc) or the transfer of thought to paper.

Here is a suggestion you might use as a framework for helping your child with writing assignments:


http://www.amazon.com/The-Magic-Stories-Literature-Based-Intervention/dp/0930599365

Can you see how this sheet offers a framework? This format can be used for a personal narrative, a summary of a story just read or even used as an outline for an original story or essay. For example, if used as a personal narrative the parent or teacher might ask the child about a memory. Questions about the setting of the memory (i.e. Disneyland, with family, during the summer) begin the writing process and help organize thoughts in a cohesive manner.

At the beginning of the summer, I enrolled my three children in the local library's reading program. Only, I took a step further and required the kids to write a book report about each book they read to qualify as "minutes" with me. This worked especially well for my daughter. Here are some of her samples:

My son, who reads like a maniac, opted to just continue reading and forego the library reading program/prizes (drat! -- He was one needing the writing practice). He is a speed-reader who probably misses many important details along the way whereas my daughter needs help with organizing what she has learned. What are some of the ways you've helped teach your children how to write?