Writing is a terrific way for children to express their thoughts, creativity, and uniqueness. It is also a fundamental way in which children learn to organize ideas. And learning to write well helps children to be better readers.

When engaging in writing, young children often mirror what they see around them: adults and older children writing lists, letters, text messaging. They are observing the way writing is used in our everyday lives.

Writing at home

Here are some suggestions that engage your child in the writing process:

• Have your child write instructions for taking care of the family pet. These will be useful as you plan your summer vacations!
• Write a letter or thank you note to a relative. Talk through what your child wants to say before writing begins.
• Make a shopping list before going to the grocery store.
• Write an online review of a book or an item you recently purchased (www.amazon.com) or a recipe you tried (www.allrecipes.com).
• Talk about the presidential election and write a description of the kind of president you want.
• Find a picture in the newspaper and write an article to accompany it.
• Start keeping a personal diary, a household guestbook, or a baby book for a younger sibling.