But so do enthusiastic writers. Their commitment to writing can wax and wane.

You can help make writing special and fun for your child. Consider doing these things:

• Give your child the tools of a writer. Provide more than the standard school supplies. Stock special paper and pencils and pens that make different colors and widths.

• Give your child a diary or journal. This is a unique way of telling your child, “I believe you are a writer. What you have to say is important.” Add a lock and key and say “Your writing is private. It is a gift to yourself that you can share when you want.”

• Buy personalized stationary for your child. Or make it on a computer. This is a first step in encouraging a tradition of writing thank-you notes and letters to relatives.

• Exchange notes with your child. Put notes of thanks and praise in his lunch box. Invite him to surprise you with notes of his own making.

• Set an example of writing extra little notes in cards you buy for birthdays and holidays.

• Display samples of your child’s writing on a family bulletin board.

• Immerse your child in the writings of others. Give books as gifts. Take him to the library often.
  

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