Share your own writing. Show your child personal, business, and consumer letters you write as well as receive.
Organize a chalkboard or bulletin board for written messages for all family members.
Involve your child in family writing activities such as making shopping lists, instructions for babysitters, directions for visitors to your house, plans for birthday parties, and notes for school.
Have your child write thank-you letters for gifts.
Encourage your child to write and draw cards to send to relatives and friends for birthdays and holidays.
Promote letter-writing of all kinds, such as notes to the tooth fairy or pen pals.
Suggest special writing projects. Your child can make yard sale signs, posters for his or her room; or keep a diary, journal, or a vacation notebook.
Point out a writing error now and then. Let your child correct it. Be sure not to over criticize.
Remember that good writing means more than “correctness.” Focus on the meaning more than the mechanics.
Be patient. Writing develops slowly with practice.
