by Rachel Wells

 

It’s super common for young kids to be reluctant to write; it takes time, practice, and a lot of patience.

If you find yourself with a child who needs a bit of motivation, mixing in a variety of fun and engaging activities into handwriting practice can help them develop the skills they need while enjoying the process. The key is making writing feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

 

Write Notes

Everyone loves getting mail! Instead of having your child copy letters or do basic handwriting pages, have them write a handwritten note to a friend or family member to mail off instead.

Another option is to write each other Post-it notes or set up a family mailbox system to leave short letters for each other.

 

Move Beyond Pencils

Who says you have to write with a pencil? Whether your child is practicing letters, spelling words, or sentences, sometimes just switching up the writing tool is enough to get kids excited to write.

For younger kids have them write in a tray of shaving cream, in sealed baggies filled with paint, or with wiki sticks.

For older kids have them write with smelly markers, icing tubes, or washable window chalk.

 

Make Writing Practical

Kids need to see how things are used in everyday life, and something as simple as having your child write down your week’s grocery list gives them an opportunity to practice writing in a realistic way.

 

LCD Writing boards

These LCD tablets are such a fun and interactive way to practice handwriting.

 

Scavenger Hunts

Everything is more fun when it’s turned into a game!

Write words or letters on Post-it notes and stick them around your house. Give your child a clipboard with a piece of paper on it and have them copy the Post-it notes they can find.

 

Rainbow Writing

Use different colored pencils or markers to write letters multiple times on top of each other creating a super cool rainbow effect. It’s a great mix of art and writing.

 

Creative Writing

If your child is the creative type, have them create comic strips, storybooks, or cool posters to hang around the house.