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The Lost Art of Letter Writing
How to Get Your Child
to Pick up a Pen
to Pick up a Pen
By Gina Roberts-Grey, L.C.S.W.
If he has to hunt for writing supplies, he's likely to lose interest in writing. Storing an interesting assortment of writing tools in an easy-to-access location helps stimulate his writing energy. Keep personal stationary and an array of pens, pencils, erasers and colored paper in an easy-to-locate area around the house or his room. Ask for his input when purchasing different types of writing implements to further promote his enthusiasm.
8. Don't be an editor.
If he's writing a letter to Grandma, remember that the message and motive is often more important than the delivery. Although it may be tempting, resist the urge to stand over his shoulder and edit his spelling or use of punctuation. Give him the freedom to express his personal thoughts without the fear his work will be criticized.
Enlist his favorite aunt or cousin or a sibling away at college to be a pen pal. The responsibility to respond to Grandpa's recent letter increases his interest to author a return letter. He'll keep in touch with family members while he realizes an alternative to instant communication.
Encourage him to keep a diary or private journal in which to write his feelings. Expressing his emotions in a secure and safe environment offers the chance for him to develop his writing style. Writing in a diary may uncover a love of poetry, fascination for short stories or his autobiographical nature.
Incorporating writing letters and notes in his communication repertoire will enhance his vocabulary and confidence in his abilities. He'll also enhance the skills he's learning in school that will be a benefit in college and throughout his adult life.