Writing

This week we will be focusing on the idea of stamina in writing. The typical child will do some writing, which at this age looks like a drawing and maybe a few words, and then proudly announces, "I'm done!!".

We want to teach the children that they can always add more to their writing and in fact, when they look critically at their writing for a second and third time, those new details often turn out to be their best.

In our classroom this week, we have added a new chart. It's called, "When I'm Done". After the children think they are "done" with their writing, they will be encouraged to:

-add to the picture
-add to the words
-start a new piece of writing

If you would like to support this concept at home, you can in many ways. Keeping a writing journal at home is a wonderful way to make writing valuable to kids. When they are 'done' writing, instead of praising them right away, you could say something like, "Interesting...tell me more about ______" or "your picture looks good but I'm wondering about __________" or "Does this make you think of something else you could write about?"

You can also practice adding stamina into everyday activities. Challenge them to brush their teeth ten seconds more, or read an extra page in a book, walk and extra block on your street, eat just ONE more bite of their least favorite food!

Thanks for your support!
~Jennifer