My oldest started there too! I feel you! Does he think it's too hard or too boring? Strategies are different for each. If it's too hard, I recommend starting with activities that focus on helping them learn to like writing without the drama of grammar and spelling. Kids can find writing overwhelming because they are mastering handwriting, spelling, grammar, and then the process of taking ideas and putting them on paper all at the same time! It's a lot! Depending on where he is, starting with simply asking him to say out loud what he wants to write will give you an idea if the issue is that he has a hard time formulating his ideas. If he struggles with that, then focus on that first and YOU just do the writing. Another strategy you can use by itself or in combination is what I did with my daughter. I started her on poems. Told her it didn't have to be spelled right, didn't need punctuation. We did shape poem. Below is a link to a post on a bunch of easy poem for kids to write. Poems are great because they are writing but you don't have to worry about grammar (or even spelling) yet. The focus is on the fun.
Now, if he can handle the grammar and writing and he's just too bored, then I would focus on bringing in activities that he loves. Whatever he's into, let him write about that. My girls would often do imaginary play "bakery store" so I'd suggest they make a sign with what they offer that involves writing.
In terms of writing programs, I think the Good & Beautiful does an exceptional job of integrating writing in beautiful and creative ways. It's a full language arts program though and also Christian so it might not suit your needs. I also like IEW and Memoria Press' programs but they are not well suited for a resistant writer. Best to get him in love with writing first.
If you have other questions or try these strategies and have more questions, please don't hesitate to reach out again!
Yes, to everything in this!
I'm looking for help with writing! My 8 year old son hates writing. Any ideas??
My oldest started there too! I feel you! Does he think it's too hard or too boring? Strategies are different for each. If it's too hard, I recommend starting with activities that focus on helping them learn to like writing without the drama of grammar and spelling. Kids can find writing overwhelming because they are mastering handwriting, spelling, grammar, and then the process of taking ideas and putting them on paper all at the same time! It's a lot! Depending on where he is, starting with simply asking him to say out loud what he wants to write will give you an idea if the issue is that he has a hard time formulating his ideas. If he struggles with that, then focus on that first and YOU just do the writing. Another strategy you can use by itself or in combination is what I did with my daughter. I started her on poems. Told her it didn't have to be spelled right, didn't need punctuation. We did shape poem. Below is a link to a post on a bunch of easy poem for kids to write. Poems are great because they are writing but you don't have to worry about grammar (or even spelling) yet. The focus is on the fun.
https://www.theahimsamind.com/p/nurturing-young-poets-12-easy-first
Now, if he can handle the grammar and writing and he's just too bored, then I would focus on bringing in activities that he loves. Whatever he's into, let him write about that. My girls would often do imaginary play "bakery store" so I'd suggest they make a sign with what they offer that involves writing.
In terms of writing programs, I think the Good & Beautiful does an exceptional job of integrating writing in beautiful and creative ways. It's a full language arts program though and also Christian so it might not suit your needs. I also like IEW and Memoria Press' programs but they are not well suited for a resistant writer. Best to get him in love with writing first.
If you have other questions or try these strategies and have more questions, please don't hesitate to reach out again!