I’m sure everyone agrees that writing is an important skill although it is not easy to master. That is why it may be a great idea to start when you are young. Written expression is not an option. No matter what you plan for your future, you will find use for writing and reading. Communication is at the apex of all businesses and operations in the world. You will find that those who have mastered the skill are the ones at the top.

Education

Writing is a fundamental part of education. It is one of the earliest skills you are taught and as you progress you keep dwelling into more complex style of writing.

Employment

At the very least, you will be required to submit your resume to a potential employer. Thereafter, you will be required to carry out administrative works, legal work, write reports and also use a computer at some point. You will need to write everywhere.

Creativity

Several people find writing to be a creative pursuit and rightly so. Any original work that is unique and created from scratch can be called a work of creativity. Writing does not always have to be for practical purposes. We see people writing poems, novels, columns, creating illustrations etc. purely from an artistic point of view. For children, this may be the most appealing reason to write.

Encouraging Children to Write

Start Simply

Ask children to start by writing small stories or essays. This will address starting troubles. There will always be scope to build on these stories if they want to.

Art

Art stimulates the brain. Children are always attracted to illustrations in stories and prefer reading such books. Encouraging them to draw or paint to enhance their story will really motivate them. Artistic expression is as important as the words it compliments.

Ideas

Teach children to pick ideas from their surroundings or day-to-day experiences and express them creatively in the story. Making notes, collecting pictures can be more helpful than you know. Understand the benefits of brainstorming. It will greatly influence their ideas and opinions.

Reading

A great habit, reading expands the imagination. Children who are ardent readers most likely have better vocabulary. Readers are more likely to begin writing as well. For children interested in writing, the best way to begin would be to start reading.

Offering Guidance

Allow Time

Creativity can’t be forced; it takes time. Let children think, craft and develop their story on their time. Patience is key.

The ‘Sandwich Method’

Providing feedback is important and more important is how you do it. The sandwich method is 3 layers of feedback. Start with the good points and appreciations; then, move onto the areas that need improvement; and finally, end with a good note or word of encouragement. You will see the difference this makes.

Avoid Writing for Them

Let children take ownership for their work. Do not try to redo their work as this may take away from its originality. This paves way for a lot of self-improvement.

Opportunities to Practice

Create opportunities for your child to write more. Encourage them to write and submit their work at school, for competitions and contests and at functions. These activities provide ample incentives.

 

Written by – Radhika Pillai