Kristy Cammell Do you feel like you’re hitting a brick wall when it comes to your kids’ writing? Does it seem like they’re “behind” to you? The answer might be simpler than you think! And not quite what you’d expect. Because this is another opportunity for you to step into a homeschool headspace.
The most important thing to understand, is that as children begin to grow in literacy, there’s a BIG difference between a child’s ability to handle the mechanics of writing (handwriting), and their ability to spin a story (storywriting).
Most of us grew up thinking you need to master both, straightaway. But the thing is, you actually don’t!
You do at school, because of the ratio of adults to children and number of hours in a school day, and that’s what works there. But now, you’re at home. Homeschooling enables you to provide 1-1 support for each of your kids wherever they need it.
And, until their handwriting ability matches their ability to think up stories… they need YOU to fill that gap.
What am I saying here? That being their scribe is something that is within your superpowers and can play an important role in developing confidence in writing overall.
How, you ask? Here’s a very quick rundown:
Handwriting:
It’s important to help them learn HOW to write correctly so that they can become more fluent. That’s where handwriting comes in.
It’s about practicing formation and increasing fluency and accuracy… without the added challenge of thinking up what to write.
Copywriting is an effective way to do this. As is writing in any form: shopping lists, a sign for the bedroom, a card for a friend, a scaffolded page of a workbook, and so on.
Storywriting:
But hang on, what about storywriting practice, you ask?
Well, if your kid is struggling with writing, try having fun with oral storytelling, being creative and imaginative. Read lots of great books together.
The skill of developing a good story is key here.
Then, this is where being their scribe comes in. All you need to do, is take the initiative and jot their ideas down for them every so often. This will inspire them, and eventually they’ll have the tools they need to do it themselves.
This process takes time though, and how long it takes is different for each child!
BOTTOM LINE?
Keeping handwriting as a separate focus while you step in as their scribe for storytelling where needed, takes the pressure off. For you, as well as for them.
And in my experience, I’ve found that with this pressure off, it’s amazing to see a love for writing, grow – even in my most reluctant writers!
There’s SO much more I could say about this topic (writing is a passion of mine) but for now I’ll leave it there. Let me know if this helps!
Oh – and if you have any tips to help those here with struggling writers (I know that this is barely the tip of the iceberg), do let us know below.
Stay awesome!
Kristy x
Interested in booking a consultation with me to chat more about this (or any other curriculum area), and get suggestions tailored to your family? Contact me here.
