Every Child Deserves to Read with Confidence 

Fostering Creativity and Learning: Tips to Get Kids Writing During Thanksgiving Break

Sunday, November 19, 2023 by Demitra Bryant | Writing

As Thanksgiving break approaches, you may find yourselves wondering how to keep your kids engaged in productive activities while they are out of school. Encouraging children to write during this time can be a fun and educational way to harness their creativity and improve their literacy skills. Here are some tips to help you get your children excited about writing during the holiday break, all while keeping it enjoyable:

Create a Writing Space

   Set up a comfortable and inviting writing space at home. A dedicated area with paper, pens, pencils, and other writing materials can inspire your child to start jotting down their thoughts and ideas.

Write Together

   Lead by example! Sit down with your child and write together. Share stories, ideas, or even create a joint journal. Your participation will show them that writing is a valuable and enjoyable activity.

Set Realistic Goals

   Encourage your child to set achievable writing goals for the break. Whether it's writing a short story, keeping a journal, or even penning a letter to a friend or relative, having a target can make writing more purposeful.

Incorporate Writing into Daily Activities

   Find opportunities to integrate writing into your daily routine. Ask your child to write a grocery list, help with meal planning, or even compose their holiday gifts wish list. 

Explore Various Writing Forms

   Make writing diverse and exciting by exploring different forms of writing. Encourage your child to write poems, short stories, essays, or even create their own comic book. Variety will keep them engaged and eager to experiment.

Read to Inspire

   Reading can be a great source of inspiration for writing. Visit the local library, select books that align with your child's interests, and encourage discussions about the stories they read. This can spark their creativity and motivate them to write their own tales.

Set a Routine

   Establish a daily or weekly writing routine. Consistency can help make writing a habit rather than a chore. Allocate a specific time each day for writing, so it becomes a part of their daily activities.

Encourage Peer Sharing

   If possible, arrange for your child to share their writing with friends or family members. Hosting a mini "writing club" or exchanging stories with siblings or cousins can make writing a social and enjoyable activity.

Provide Positive Feedback

   Praise your child's writing efforts, focusing on their ideas and creativity rather than just grammar and spelling. Positive reinforcement will boost their confidence and enthusiasm for writing.

Celebrate Achievements

    Celebrate your child's writing accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Create a "writing wall" to display their work, and consider having a special treat or outing as a reward for completing a writing project.

Thanksgiving break is an excellent time for children to explore their creativity and improve their writing skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. By following these tips and making writing an enjoyable experience, you can help your kids develop a lifelong love for the written word, all while having fun during the holiday season.

Happy Holiday Season

Demitra

Encouraging Your Child to Dive into the World Books

Sunday, November 5, 2023 by Demitra Bryant | Tips

We've all been there - the frustration of trying to get our kids to put down the gadgets and pick up a good old-fashioned book. In a digital age, it can sometimes feel like an uphill battle to engage children with the written word. But don't lose hope! Here are some tried and tested tips to help elementary, middle, and high school students fall in love with reading.

Choose the Right Books  

Start by finding books that match your child's interests. If they're into dinosaurs, there's a book for that. Space? Fantasy? Mystery? The choices are endless. Remember, it's essential to choose age-appropriate material. Graphic novels and comic books can also be a great entry point, especially for reluctant readers.

Create a Cozy Reading Nook 

Make a dedicated space for reading. It could be a corner of their room, a hammock in the garden, or even a tent made of blankets in the living room. Fill it with soft cushions, a reading lamp, and, of course, books. This special place can make reading feel like an adventure!

Set a Reading Time 

Establish a daily reading routine. It could be just before bedtime, after school, or during a lazy weekend afternoon. The consistency will help make reading a regular part of their life.

Lead by Example 

Kids often emulate their parents. If they see you reading and enjoying a book, they'll be more inclined to do the same. Discuss what you're reading with them, share your favorite parts, and ask about their books in return.

Join a Book Club  

Many libraries and schools offer book clubs for kids. It's a fantastic way for them to discuss what they've read with peers, make new friends, and discover new genres.

Incorporate Technology  

If your child is tech-savvy, consider getting them an e-reader or audiobooks. While it's different from traditional reading, it's still a valuable way to engage with stories and improve comprehension.

Challenge and Reward  

Set up a reading challenge! For every book they finish, they get a point. Accumulate enough points, and they get a reward - maybe a new book, a trip to their favorite ice cream shop, or an extra hour of screen time.

Visit Libraries and Bookstores  

Make it a family outing. Let your child explore, choose their books, and even attend story hours or author events. The more they engage with the world of books, the more they'll want to be a part of it.

Discuss What They're Reading  

After your child finishes a book, talk about it. Ask them about their favorite characters, the plot, and how it made them feel. It not only improves their comprehension but also makes them excited to share their reading experiences.

Stay Patient and Positive  

Lastly, remember that every child is different. What works for one might not work for another. Celebrate small victories and continue to encourage them without applying too much pressure.

In conclusion, while it might seem challenging to pull kids away from screens and into books, it's entirely possible with a bit of creativity and persistence. Remember, the goal is to cultivate a love for reading that will benefit them for a lifetime. So, dear parents, armed with these tips, let's embark on this exciting journey of discovering the magic of books with our kids!

Happy reading! 📚