The development of writing skills is critical in determining a child's academic success. Your child probably receives daily formal writing instruction in school—but when it comes to writing, the more practice the better! Help your child by incorporating some fun and interesting writing activities at home.

To inspire young writers, start by setting up a well lit table, desk, or office. Stock the area with a variety of different sized and colored paper, markers, crayons, and pencils. You may also include office supplies such as paper clips, a stapler, and tape. Enlist your child's help in preparing the writing area by taking a trip to a local office supply store and allowing your child to choose some of the materials he'd like to keep on his desk. Setting up such an area is motivational on its own, but if you're looking for some easy tasks to engage your child in, try some of the following suggestions.

Writing Can Be Functional

Teach your child the value of the written word by showing her what can be accomplished through writing:

• Create lists: As you write the grocery store list, engage your child by asking him to create his own list. His list can mirror yours or he may wish to list a few things he'd like to look for at the store. Making other kinds of lists can also be fun. Try making a list of your favorite animals, favorite foods, family members, or things that would be fun to do on the weekend. Provide your child with folders or envelopes in which he can keep and collect his lists.
• Write thank you notes: Not only do thank you notes encourage your child to be the gracious recipient of a gift or an experience, writing them can be a wonderful way to engage in functional writing. Ask your child to jot down a few things she likes about the gift. Once the note is finished she can decorate it with drawings, stickers, or other art supplies.
• Post reminders: In the morning rush to get ready for school, it is easy to forget items. Give your child a pad of Post-It notes so he can write himself reminders and post them in a place where he'll see them the next morning. This exercise also encourages responsibility and independence.
• Email family members: Give your child a chance to keep in touch with distant family members by emailing them periodically. Help your child choose two or three family members she wishes to email and set her up on the computer to write a quick, friendly note or a detailed account of the latest news in her life.