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Get Those Pencils Moving Build WRITING SKILLS in Your Kids BY SARA KENDALL W riting is a great way to express what you think, feel and imagine. Being able to communicate well using written words is essential for your kids. Extra writing practice can improve skills and boost overall school performance. All kids, from a kindergartener to a high schooler, can become better writers by doing more of it. Here are six practice exercises for a range of ages and writing abilities. WRITE A PICTURE STORY For pre-kindergarten and early elementary schoolaged children, have them draw a picture on a piece of white paper. Encourage them to write a simple basic sentence about what they have drawn on the open white space on the paper. Prompt them by asking questions about their drawing. What is going on? What person did you draw? What are they doing? IN THE KITCHEN Place a dry-erase board or chalkboard within easy reach for your kids. If they want you to purchase something at the grocery store, ask them to write it on the board. Planning the weekend menu? Have your kid write it down. If you pack your kids' school lunch, encourage them to write down their requests. It doesn't matter if it's not spelled correctly; have them sound it out. 20 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • October 2013 MAKE LISTS Get the note pads ready. If you are planning to go to the grocery store, dictate what items are needed to purchase and have your kid write them down. Planning to go away on a trip? Have your kids write down what they should pack. Having a busy week? Get your kid to write the schedule down to help everyone remember what's going on. Making lists is a great way to practice spelling and handwriting skills.