Raising Inspired Writers Part II

    I have had the opportunity to work with many families searching to provide authentic opportunities for their children to write.  Often, a journal is implemented to provide this opportunity.  While I applaud the implementation of this tool, some students require
further inspiration to write.  In these instances, sensory rich experiences can be used. 
I have outlined several types of these experiences below. 
 
     One of these experiences is nature immersion.  Throughout the Atlanta, Georgia area there are various parks and nature preserves. Within these special spaces lay a variety of animals, insects and plants to be discovered.  Leading your child in a guided
exploration of these areas can provide a truly fulfilling experience.  All senses are engaged as nature naturally unfolds before you.  This experience can also lend itself to the opportunity for your child to research further about the living creatures you encountered while exploring.  In the slideshow below, I have featured a few pictures from my favorite spots around Atlanta!

    I also encourage you to establish shared experiences with your child.  During one summertime lesson, I created ice cream with a student. This experience later motivated the child to write about the steps in the process.  She also wrote a beautiful story about
a town made solely of ice cream. It was a true delight!  A favorite trip or vacation spot can also lead itself to wonderful stories.  Often, I will use treasured storybooks to provide a catalyst for writing. Providing students the opportunity to rewrite the end of a familiar story, create an original version,  or change the setting excites students and inspires writing.  

These are a few of my favorite catalysts for story writing.

    I firmly believe, tapping into children’s interests brings learning alive for students.  One of my favorite writing activities to provide students with an interest in the arts is “Scribble Writing.”  As the name implies, students are given the opportunity to construct a large scribble on a blank paper.  Using their creative talents, they form a unique picture depicting an object based on the scribble.  The picture is then used as a catalyst for writing. Many of the students I guide enjoy Legos.  I recently came upon art and writing projects incorporating these toys at Homegrown Learners. 
   

     Guiding children in becoming inspired writers can be facilitated by sensory rich experiences.  Allowing the child to fully experience the enjoyment of the trip,
activity, and craft facilitates the natural flow of future writing ideas.  Guiding child to enjoy rather than mandate a piece based on a specific writing topic lays the foundation for
students to become lifelong writers.  What activities do you enjoy establishing to facilitate writing inspiration for your child?