Supporting Emergent Writers

Many parents have been requesting ways to encourage emergent writing at home. I can assure you that you are probably already using some of these strategies at home without even realizing it! Below are a few recommended strategies to further encourage emergent writing outside of the classroom.

Home Literacy

Having print and literacy available in your home will expose your child to print and meaningful uses of writing. This does not mean that your home needs to be overflowing with books! Grocery lists, calendars, post-it notes, magazines, and environmental print are just some of the literacy examples you may have in your home. Having your child assist you in filling in the calendar or writing the grocery list will give meaning to writing and inspire them to copy the type of writing you use in the home.

Providing Writing Materials

Providing your child with paper (even scraps) and writing materials will encourage her/him to write during free time and while engaged in play activities. You may notice that little scribbled signs may be displayed in your child's block zoo or that a restaurant menu is created.

Valuing Your Child's Emergent Writing Ability

As discussed before, every child is a writer. Recognizing that scribbles, random letters, and invented spelling are all forms of writing will help you better recognize the writing stage that your child is at. Encourage your child to continue writing by recognizing that she/he is a writer and asking what she/he has written.

Be confident in the fact that you are providing your child with the tools necessary to be a successful writer!

Further Resources:
 - Developing Writing and Spelling at Home (Pre-K)
 - Launching Young Writers
 - Helping Young Children to Develop Emergent Literacy Skills (children with visual impairments)