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This doesn't mean that you need to run out and buy a "special" $500 Mont Blanc fountain pen. Perhaps a pen with a case in her signature color would work. Maybe the ink needs to be just the right shade of purple. Take your little one on a stroll through the pen section of an art supply or stationery store and let her choose. Seeing such a wide array of writing supplies may spur interest on its own.
Once you have tracked down a favorite pen, try to do as many creative things as you can think of to get your child to use it.
1. Everyday Writing: Use everyday situations to help children practice their writing. For example, the next time you write a grocery list, have your child sit next to you and write a list of her favorite foods. Whenever you write thank-you notes, your child can write a miss-you letter to Grandma and Grandpa. Time to pay bills? Have your little one write about a recent dream while you write checks.
2. Ghost Messaging: Dip a cotton swab into a small container of lemon juice. Use the swab to write a message on a sheet of construction paper. When you're finished, set the paper in direct sunlight and wait for the message to ghostly appear. It's creepy and fun!
3. Hometown Reporter: Read through a newspaper together to get an idea of the kinds of stories journalists write about, and how they word headlines. Encourage your child to write his own articles: investigative, human interest, community events, celebrity profile, etc. "Publish" the article in a word processing program and send copies to friends and family. If the article is of mass interest, send it to the local newspaper!
4. Sidewalk Chalk: Give your little ones the power to express themselves and have a ton of fun at the same time. Use sidewalk chalk to write poems, jokes and short stories on the driveway.
5. Letter Puzzles: This project is fun for the writer and the reader! First, write a letter to someone on a sheet of paper. When you're finished, use a pair of scissors to cut the note into interlocking puzzle pieces. Place the pieces into an envelope and mail or hand-deliver it. The recipient must assemble the puzzle in order to read the letter!
6. Dear Editor: Encourage your children to voice their thoughts and opinions publicly by writing letters to the editors of children's magazines, local newspapers and even radio stations! Keep a scrapbook of all published clips, or frame them as a constant reminder of their writing accomplishments.
About The Author: Deborah Shelton is the author of The Five Minute Parent: Fun & Fast Activities for You and Your Little Ones. Visit The Five Minute Parent for fun rainy-day activities, family links, and a free email newsletter filled with craft ideas, guest articles, contests and so much more! http://www.fiveminuteparent.com
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