Many children begin writing or "play writing" well before they can read even the simplest words. Something about making letters and transcribing their own thoughts by putting pen to paper seems to trigger the imagination of the youngest learners. Here are three early childhood writing activities by Helene Goldnadel you can use to guide your child's writing enthusiasm and help develop their creative talents.
Write a Newspaper Story
Put on a reporter's cap and get the scoop! Start by reading a short article from your local paper to your child and explain how reporters research and investigate events for a news story. Encourage your child to write a short article explaining something that interests them to you or their friends. This is a great way to introduce The Five W's (who, what, when, where, and why) that will help them develop their writing and story-telling skills for years to come. When they are done, let your child report the story to you like the news anchors on TV.
Make Your Own Book
Children love stories and their active imaginations are perfect for creating new ones. Create a template of four to five empty pages (pre-lined pages with a place for pictures on each work best) and staple them along the left edge to create the book. Discuss how stories have a beginning, middle, and end. For older children, discuss other story elements, like main characters, titles and themes. Let your child's imagination run wild as they create their own story and are able to read it to you when they're through.
Write a Letter or Thank You Note
Aside from pleasing grandparents and other relatives, writing letters and thank you notes can be a great way for young children to learn about the value of writing. Create a letter template for your child consisting of a salutation (Dear _____), several lines for a letter body, and a closing (From _____). Allow your child to complete each section based on who the letter is for and any special thoughts they feel like sharing. Complete the activity by mailing the letters and hoping for a reply. Developing a pen pal for your child to exchange letters with can help reinforce the necessity of good writing skills.
A Few More Fun Writing Activities
Ready for more? Continue encouraging your child's writing ability by having them keep a journal or write a review of their favorite movie or television show. Practice rhyming words and see if your child can create a silly poem. All children get better with practice. Keep in mind that many young learners will want to write before they are able to form proper letters or spell simple words. Encouraging them with writing activities at this time will help them begin to develop the early language skills they will build upon throughout the first years of school.
