Writing Programs for Children and Teens

Writing Programs that Can Help Your Child

It may get confusing when searching for a writing program that suits your child's particular level and educational needs. If your child is dyslexic, for example, you may need a program best suited to address this disability. If your child has a vivid imagination, a local library or community center may offer creative writing lessons. Alternatively, some home tutors may be able to implements writing programs for your child at home. Talk your child's teachers to find out what he or she might benefit from and what's available in your area.

Although many writing programs cost money, you can find writing games, worksheets, activities, tests and lesson plans are all available for free on the Internet. You can use any of these to engage your child in learning, or use them as guidance to create your own lessons for your child or teenager based on his or her specific needs. Additionally, below is a list of interactive activities you can use at home to help your child improve his or her writing skills.

Story Writing

Allow your child to pick a fictional book that he or she is interested in. Read the story with your child and then have him or her write a story that continues the adventures of a favorite character.

Self-Portrait Exercise

Combining writing and drawing into one activity can be fun. If your child is in elementary school, give him or her a blank paper in the shape of a human head. Have your child turn it into a self-portrait using pencils, markers and crayons. Then, ask your child to write a paragraph about his or herself, including a physical description and interesting facts, hobbies and talents. Give your child a list of age and level-appropriate adjectives and nouns that he or she can draw inspiration from.

Speed Test Activity

A fun activity that can get your child's creative juices flowing is a free association speed test. Give your child a piece of paper and a pencil. State a theme and have your child write as many words as possible related to it within a short period of time. For example, you could set a timer to two minutes and tell your child that the theme is fairy tales. Your child will then write as many words as he or she can think of, like 'dragon' or 'princess'.