Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Activity, Change, Progress

languagearts

Why Is Geronimo Stilton So Popular Among Young Readers

| Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Why is Geronimo Stilton so popular among young readers? Also, look at my page Geronimo Stilton Books for more great activities.

Geronimo Stilton was created by Italian author Elisabetta Dami. But the books are presented like they are written by Geronimo himself.

The first Geronimo Stilton book was published in Italy in 2000 and then later translated into English and other languages.

Why Is Geronimo Stilton So Popular Among Young Readers

And if you’ve seen a brightly colored book with a mouse in a suit dashing across the cover it is none other than Geronimo Stilton.

But why is Geronimo Stilton so popular among young readers?

When we read our first one, we laughed almost the whole way through the fun read.

GERONIMO STILTON BOOK SERIES

First, look at some of the titles of the fun books.

Geronimo Stilton Books 1 - 20

It is not necessary to go in order, each book is its own stand-alone story, and the main characters are properly reintroduced each time.  So, you can choose the books based on your child's current interest, the season, or a unit study topic.

Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye

Who Is Geronimo Stilton? That's me! I run a newspaper, but my true passion is writing tales of adventure. Here on Mouse Island, my books are all best-sellers! What's that? You've never read one? Well, my books are full of fun. They are whisker-licking good stories, and that's a promise!Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye. It all started when my sister, Thea, discovered a mysterious map. It showed a secret treasure on a faraway island. And before I could let out a squeak of protest, Thea dragged me into her treasure hunt! In no time at all, we'd set sail for the island. It was an adventure I'd never forget....

The Curse of the Cheese Pyramid (Geronimo Stilton #2)

I'm off to Egypt! I climbed onboard a crabby old camel that would take me across the desert to the Great Cheese Pyramid. There, among mummies and hieroglyphics, I would learn the secret of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient Mouse World....

Cat and Mouse in a Haunted House (Geronimo Stilton, No. 3)

I was lost in a dark, spooky forest! Until I stumbled upon Curlypaw Cannycat's Castle.

I'm Too Fond of My Fur! (Geronimo Stilton #4)

Well, my books are full of fun. They are whisker-licking good stories, and that's a promise! I'm Too Fond of My Fur! I was on my way 'round the world to Mouse Everest! The trip was long and dangerous. I almost froze my tail off on the way. And then I was kidnapped by the Abominable Snowman! Yes, it was truly an amazing adventure....

Four Mice Deep in the Jungle (Geronimo Stilton Funny Tales)

Enter the world of Geronimo Stilton, where another funny adventure is always right around the corner. Each book is a fast-paced adventure with lively art and a unique format kids 7-10 will love.I have never been a brave mouse... but lately, my fears were taking over my life! Soon I was too afraid even to leave my mousehole. That's when Thea and Trap decided to cure me. They dragged me away on an airplane (I'm afraid of flying!) all the way to the jungle. There I was forced to eat bug soup, climb trees as high as skyscrapers, swim in raging rivers, and even wrangle snakes! How would a 'fraidy mouse like me ever survive?

Paws Off, Cheddarface! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 6)

Who Is Geronimo Stilton? That's me! I run a newspaper, but my true passion is writing tales of adventure. Here on Mouse Island, my books are all best-sellers! They are whisker-licking good tales, and that's a promise!__PAWS OFF, CHEDDARFACE!It was the strangest thing... all across New Mouse City, rodents kept telling me I'd done things I had no memory of! I soon discovered why... there was a Geronimo look-alike out there, pretending to be me. He'd even fooled my sister Thea! And worst of all, he was trying to take over my newspaper. I had to find a way to strike back -- but how??

Red Pizzas for a Blue Count

They are whisker-licking-good tales, and that's a promise! Red Pizzas for a Blue Count My troublemaker cousin was trapped in Transratania! And before I could even squeak, my sister, Thea, dragged me along on her rescue mission. Little did we know that Transratania is the land of vampire bats! Holey cheese, bats give me mouse bumps! Why? Well, there's nothing a bat likes more than sinking its teeth into a nice, juicy mouse....

Attack of the Bandit Cats (Geronimo Stilton, No. 8)

Oh, what a day! I had just published New Mouse City's first phone book -- and almost every single number was wrong! My customers were out for my fur. So when Thea, Trap, and Benjamin asked me to join their quest for a legendary island covered in silver, I agreed. But no sooner had we set out than we were attacked by a ship of pirate cats! They mousenapped us and threatened to make us their dinner. Would we escape with our lives... or find ourselves in the soup?

A Fabumouse Vacation for Geronimo (Geronimo Stilton, No. 9)

Sometimes a busy businessmouse like me needs a nice, relaxing vacation. But of all the rotten rats' luck -- every time I tried to get away, disaster struck. My aunt Dizzy Fur's mouse hole caught on fire, my office was flooded, and our printing press broke down! When I was finally ready to depart, all the good trips were booked up. I was stuck in a flea-ridden old hotel, sharing a room with a bunch of Gerbil Scouts! I couldn't wait to get back to my comfy home in New Mouse City....

All Because of a Cup of Coffee (Geronimo Stilton, No. 10)

I, Geronimo Stilton, was in love! I went out for a cup of coffee one morning and laid eyes on the most beautiful rodent I'd ever seen. Unfortunately, I immediately tripped over my paws and ended up with my tail in a toaster! I was one mortified mouse. But I was determined to prove that I wasn't a complete stumblemouse. So I decided to join my family on their most daring adventure yet -- a journey to the eighth wonder of the world! There I made a discovery so truly amazing, I knew I could win the heart of my darling ratlette....

The Phantom of the Subway (Geronimo Stilton, No. 13)

When my sister Thea told me a ghost was haunting New Mouse City's subway tunnels, I knew I had to get the scoop for The Rodents Gazette! So I set off with Thea, Trap, and my assistant editor Pinky Pick. We soon discovered that Sally Ratmousen, the editor of The Daily Rat, was also on the trail of the mysterious ghost. But we were all in for the fright of our wee mouse lives... because the ghost turned out to be a CAT!

The Temple of the Ruby of Fire (Geronimo Stilton, No. 14)

It was my most thrilling adventure yet! My old friend Professor von Volt had discovered the location of the famous Ruby of Fire. And before I could let out a squeak of protest, my sister Thea had dragged me into race to be the first to find the legendary gem. The jewel was protected by thousands of ancient booby-traps -- a 'fraidy mouse's worst nightmare? Would I make it through with my fur?

The Mona Mousa Code (Geronimo Stilton, No. 15)

Do you like art? I do! So when Thea heard that there was a secret map hidden beneath Mouse Island's most famous painting, the Monamouse, I knew we had to get the scoop! Together we began to investigate, and soon we discovered secret clues that led us to the most fabumouse secret. And it all lay beneath the streets of New Mouse City!

A Cheese-Colored Camper[GERONIMO STILTON #16 CHEESE-CO][Paperback]

My grandfather William Shortpaws -- also known as Cheap Mouse Willy -- was back at The Rodent's Gazette, and he was determined to torture me. He wanted to publish a guide book to Ratzikistan, the Siberia of Mouse Island. And he ordered *me* to go there to write it! But as you know, dear reader,

Watch Your Whiskers, Stilton! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 17)

Cheesecake! A mysterious one-eyed rat was trying to steal The Rodent's Gazette from under my snout! I had to stop him -- but how? My business manager, Shif T. Paws, came up with a plan. He arranged for me to appear on a TV quiz show. If I won, the Gazette was safe. But if I lost -- SQUEAK! -- I had to give up my tail!

Shipwreck on the Pirate Islands (Geronimo Stilton, No. 18)

My sister had come up with a new way to torment me. She'd combined my two least favorite things - travel and ghosts! Thea had heard rumors of a haunted pirate treasure buried on a desert island. And before I could say "avast ye scurvy rats," she'd dragged me into her treasure hunt!

My Name Is Stilton, Geronimo Stilton (Geronimo Stilton, No. 19)

Have you met my very young assistant editor, Pinky Pick? She is only thirteen years old, but she is one of the cleverest mice I've ever known. If you've ever wondered how Pinky came to work for me at The Rodent's Gazette, this is the book for you! It's a looooong story... and one that's full of adventure, laughs, and of course, like all of my books, lots of embarrassing moments for yours truly!

Surf's Up, Geronimo! (Geronimo Stilton, No. 20)

Ah, there's nothing like a relaxing vacation on the beach! I would spread out by the crystal-clear water with a good book. What more could a mouse want? At least, that was the plan. But somehow, my vacations never seem to go according to plan. Instead of a beautiful seaside resort, I found myself in a fleabag hotel that was falling down around my ears! Oh, would I ever be able to relax and enjoy my vacation

Now, look at some of the fun reasons both parents and children love the series.

WHY IS GERONIMO STILTON SO POPULAR

Look at these facts about the book series.

  • The books have a visual flair both with text and pictures. For example, some text is larger than the other and color coded. It brings attention to certain words to help young readers understand the tone. Basically, the words are different colors, fonts, and sizes.
  • Also, Geronimo Stilton is a mouse and the editor and publisher of the fictional newspaper The Rodent’s Gazette in New Mouse City on Mouse Island. However, he is very human to children.
  • Geronimo is always going on an adventure and is a scaredy mouse. He is curious, funny, and cautious. Because he is not very brave, children of all ages love his charming personality.
  • Many of the books explore geographical areas and historical events, ancient civilizations, and time travel. It’s a fun blend of stepping back in time, adventure and education. Children read about history and geography in a natural and fun way much like a living book.
  • And of course being a mouse, he loves his cheese. He especially loves Mozarella and Swiss. We did a charcuterie board one time as we were reading.
  • Because there is educational information packed into the stories, they pair nicely with our geography and history unit studies.
  • I wouldn’t really call Geronimo a superhero. He is thoughtful and kind. Because he is cowardly but overcomes his fear and helps others, his character can make a great model for kids. He models perseverance and curiosity.
  • Too, it appeals to many cultures because of the universal theme of friendship and courage.

Why Is Geronimo Stilton So Popular Among Young Readers

Finally, look at these activities that we have done to pair with the adventures in some of his books.

MORE GERONIMO STILTON ACTIVITIES

You should try one or two.

Because of the fast-pace, and visual design and adventurous plot the series really appeals to the reluctant reader.

In a world full of digital distractions your young readers will keep coming back from.

Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

| Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

If you need some solid strategies to improve handwriting for your child, I have gathered up an assortment from my many years as a homeschooling mom. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

In an increasingly digital world, handwriting might seem like a relic of the past.

However, the ability to write legibly by hand remains a vital skill.

Good handwriting not only enhances academic and professional performance but also boosts self-esteem and encourages personal expression.

Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

We are diving into techniques and tools for handwriting improvement, offering a wide array of strategies, techniques, and resources to help individuals elevate their penmanship.

Improving handwriting is an achievable goal with dedication, practice, and the right approach.

By incorporating physical techniques, consistent practice, tools, and additional help when needed, all ages can enhance their handwriting and unlock its full potential.

Before we head out on our journey to improve handwriting for your child, it’s important to identify the specific challenges that reduce legibility and fluency.

IDENTIFYING COMMON HANDWRITING ISSUES

Next, look at some of these common writing obstacles.

  • Illegibility: Difficulty deciphering written words due to poor letter formation, inconsistent slant, or inadequate spacing.
  • Inconsistency: Variations in letter size, slant, and spacing, which lead to a disorganized and visually unappealing appearance.
  • Slow Writing Speed: Laborious and time-consuming writing that can impede note-taking, creative writing, and other tasks.
  • Hand Fatigue: Pain or discomfort in the hand, wrist, or arm during or after writing, often caused by incorrect grip or posture.
  • Poor Letter Formation: Incorrect or inconsistent formation of letters, leading to confusion and misinterpretation.

Now that we know what the most common causes for poor handwriting are we can focus on strategies.

STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE HANDWRITING

A multifaceted approach is the key to achieving lasting improvements in handwriting.

The following strategies include physical techniques and practice methods.

The physical aspects of writing, including grip, posture, and fine motor skills are crucial for improving handwriting.

1. GRIP AND POSTURE TECHNIQUES ARE IMPORTANT

  • Strengthen hand and finger muscles through fine motor play like scooping, pouring, kneading playdough and etc.
  • For older children exercises such as squeezing stress balls, playing an instrument, finger stretches, and wrist rotations are great for building fine motor muscles.
  • Focus on making sure your child has the proper grip on writing utensils.
  • The tripod grip is ideal and involves holding the pen or pencil between the thumb, index, and middle fingers, with the ring and little fingers resting comfortably on the writing surface. Tools like these pencil grips are great for teaching proper hold.
  • Encourage a relaxed grip, avoiding excessive pressure which can cause your child’s hand to cramp and fatigue.
  • Have your child use an upright posture, sitting with a straight back, feet flat on the floor, and shoulders relaxed, not slouching or leaning over the paper.
  • For good paper positioning, have them tilt the paper slightly to align with the natural writing angle.
  • Right-handed individuals typically angle the paper to the left, while left-handed individuals angle it to the right.
  • Keep the wrist straight and relaxed to allow for smooth and controlled movements for proper wrist alignment.

2. CONSISTENT PRACTICE ESSENTIAL

  • For the youngest learners, begin by tracing letters and words to memorize the correct stroke order and direction.
  • Utilize handwriting worksheets or digital resources that provide step-by-step instructions for forming letters.
  • Focus on Individual Letters, identify problematic letters, and dedicate focused practice sessions to mastering their formation.
  • As your child moves from print to cursive practice joining letters smoothly and consistently to develop cursive writing skills.
  • Consistent Spacing: Maintain uniform spacing between letters and words to enhance readability.
  • Use lined paper as a guide for letter size and baseline alignment, there are many types available from large preschool spaces to college ruled.
  • Ensure that all letters rest on the baseline for a neat and organized appearance, have your child check and correct their own writing as well.
  • Stick with short, frequent sessions: Dedicate 15-20 minutes each day to focused handwriting practice. Consistency is key to building muscle memory and improving fluency.

3. USE THE BEST HANDWRITING TOOLS

  • Ergonomic Pens and Pencils- Choose writing instruments that fit comfortably in their hand and promote a relaxed grip.
  • Pencil Grips-Consider using pencil grips to improve grip and reduce hand fatigue.
  • Different paper types- Experiment with different types of paper to find one that suits their writing style and preferences. Different textures, lined paper, grooved paper for writing practice.

4. EXPLORE HANDWRITING TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES

  • Handwriting Apps- Explore interactive apps that offer guided practice, feedback, and gamified learning experiences.
  • Digital Tablets and Stylus Pens- Practice handwriting on digital devices for a versatile and engaging experience.
Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Too, look at more homeschool writing tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

In some cases, handwriting difficulties may stem from underlying medical or developmental conditions.

In this case, you will want to consult with your doctor on getting a referral for:

  • Vision Assessment-Schedule a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any vision problems that might be affecting handwriting.
  • Occupational Therapy- Consult an occupational therapist if handwriting challenges are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other fine motor skill difficulties.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

| Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

To catch their interest, you want to keep elementary school writing topics interesting and relevant to your child’s life. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

Besides, writing is a fundamental skill that lays the groundwork for academic success and effective communication throughout life.

Too, elementary school writing topics help students to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a love for language.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Additionally, I’m giving you lots of great ideas for writing topics for your elementary aged child.

However, it would also be a lot of fun to help your child create a unique customized creative writing journal to put ideas in.

In the elementary grades, children begin to learn about- narrative, descriptive, and expository writing, with each serving its own purpose.

  • Narrative writing tells a story. It often includes characters, a plot, and a setting. The primary goal is to entertain or engage the reader.
  • Informative writing aims to educate or inform the reader about a specific topic. It relies on facts, statistics, and evidence to convey information.

Persuasive writing attempts to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. It often uses arguments, appeals, and evidence to sway the reader’s opinion.

First, look at narrative writing topics.

NARRATIVE WRITING TOPICS

Narrative writing allows students to tell stories, real or imagined. Moreover, it helps them develop their ability to structure a story, create characters, and use descriptive language from their point of view.

Personal Experiences

  • A time I was happy
  • My favorite party
  • A day I learned something new
  • A trip to the zoo
  •  My first day of school
  •  A time I helped someone
  •  My favorite family tradition

Imaginary Stories

  •  The mystery of the missing cookie
  •  If I had a pet dragon…
  •  A journey to a faraway land…
  •  The day the toys came to life
  •  A superhero adventure…
  •  A talking animal’s story
  •  A visit to a candy kingdom

Next, look at descriptive writing topics.

DESCRIPTIVE WRITING TOPICS

In addition, descriptive writing encourages students to use sensory details to paint a picture with words. Also, this helps them develop their vocabulary and observation skills.

Places

  •  My favorite place in my house
  •  A park on a sunny day
  •  A busy street in the city
  •  A quiet forest
  •  The beach at sunset
  •  My classroom
  •  A magical garden

Objects

  •  A piece of artwork
  •  My favorite toy
  •  A special gift
  •  A colorful flower
  •  A shiny rock..
  •  An old book
  • A delicious treat
Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

People

  •  My best friend
  •  A family member
  •  A hero I admire
  •  Someone I just met recently
  •  A character from a book
  •  A neighbor that I know well

Also, look at expository writing topics.

EXPOSITORY WRITING TOPICS

Expository writing focuses on explaining, informing, or describing a topic. For example, it helps students develop their research, organization, and analytical skills.

How-To

  •  How to make a sandwich
  •  How to plant a seed
  •  How to draw a picture
  •  How to build a tower with blocks
  •  How to build a tree fort
  •  How to bake cookies
  •  How to take care of a pet
  • How to play my favorite video game

Factual Reports

  •  My favorite animal
  •  The solar system
  •  Different types of weather
  •  Famous landmarks
  •  The life cycle of a butterfly
  •  How plants grow
  •  What I know about dinosaurs

Opinion Pieces

  • Fishing is better than hunting
  •  Why reading is important
  •  My favorite sport and why
  •  The best thing about summer
  •  My favorite food and why
  •  Why it’s important to be kind
  •  The best way to spend a weekend

Too, look at more homeschool writing tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

Finally, look at how to make an elementary school creative writing journal.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WRITING TOPICS JOURNAL

You will need:

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

First, lay your composition book on the “wrongside” of your chosen scrapbook paper.

Then trace around it with a pencil. Do this for each side. I like to leave the clean bound edge outside of the tracing area so it leaves a nice binding.

Unless your paper is the same on both sides, trace one side each time so that the pattern will be showing on the outside rather than cutting the same side out twice.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Next, repeat the same process with solid cardstock for each side.

Cut out all 4 pages and set to the side.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Next, cut out a length of ribbon twice as long as the height of the comp book.

Glue to the inside back cover so that when pulled through the pages at least an inch will still hang out the bottom.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Using a generous amount of glue, attach the solid cardstock to both sides of the inner covers, making sure it is pressed down well and covers the ribbon attached to the back.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Wipe away excess glue and allow it to lay open overnight or for several hours until the glue dries. You can use a quick drying glue stick but it may not hold as well as a good coat of school glue, alternatively use a thin layer of hot glue for a really quick dry.

Cover the outside of the journal with glue and press in your patterned paper to cover well. If needed, trim any edges off neatly.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Now use stickers or markers to add anything else you would like to add. A strip of solid cardstock glued across the middle gives you a clean canvas for adding a name or a title for the writing journal.

We found a bunch of words that were inspiring for writing all types of topics to decorate our journal with.

Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics

Finally, allow the glue to dry and the journal is ready to hold all your fabulous stories using what you learned about writing.

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

| Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When you are planning your child’s high school writing courses there are several things to consider. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

Whether your child is college bound, or they will go the trade school route, having a strong grasp on writing, grammar, etc. will help them in life.

These skills will translate into being able to write great emails and reports and communicate clearly and quickly.

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

Good writing will help your child excel with proposals and presentations, get thoughts out creatively and concisely, fill forms out correctly, and more.

The best writing program for your homeschooler is the one that meets their individual needs and helps them achieve their writing goals.

But there are things to consider when looking for a writing program.

4 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN HIGH SCHOOL WRITING COURSES

  1. Student’s Learning Style: Consider whether your student learns best through visual, auditory, or kinesthetic methods. Choose a curriculum or platform that matches their learning style.
  2. Budget: Some curricula and platforms can be expensive, while others are free or low-cost. Consider your budget when choosing a writing program.
  3. Time Commitment: Some programs require significant time commitment, while others are more flexible. Consider your student’s schedule and your own availability when choosing a program.
  4. Level of Parental Involvement: Some programs require a high level of parental involvement, while others are more self-directed. Consider your own comfort level and availability when choosing a program.

Now that you have considered these things it is time to assess your student’s needs.

IDENTIFY YOUR STUDENT’S NEEDS IN A WRITING COURSE

Identifying student’s strengths and weaknesses: Consider their learning style, interests, and goals. Where do they need additional support?

Set Goals: Use the assessment of strengths and weaknesses to determine specific writing skills that you want your student to improve- technical, creative, etc. and set both long- and short-term goals for your child.

Research various options: Explore various curricula, platforms, and additional options. Read reviews, compare features, and consider your assessment criteria.

Use free trials and placement tests: Use free trials or sample lessons when available before you commit to a company.

Create a Writing Schedule: Establish a regular writing schedule that fits into your homeschooling routine.

Offer constructive criticism and encouragement. Celebrate your child’s successes and help them overcome challenges.

Supplement with Additional Resources: Use writing prompts, online resources, and other materials to supplement your chosen curriculum or platform. I found something like a Word a Day calendar is fun for building vocabulary.

Seek Outside Support: Consider joining a homeschool writing group, finding a writing coach or tutor, or enrolling your student in a dual-enrollment program.

Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations

Some other sources that you can consider are local community colleges or coaches and tutors.

Writing Coaches and Tutors: Individualized instruction from a writing coach or tutor can be beneficial for students who need extra support or want to focus on specific writing skills.

Local Community Colleges: Many community colleges offer dual-enrollment programs that allow high school students to take college-level writing courses for credit.

Also, look at more homeschool writing curriculum and tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

Now let me share with you some of the best high school writing courses I have found focusing on a variety of needs and in different formats.

7 High School Writing Courses

Now let me share with you some of the best high school writing courses I have found focusing on a variety of needs and in different formats.

Elegant Essay Writing Lessons : Building Blocks for Analytical Writing

Institute forExcellence in Writing (IEW): IEW offers a structured approach to writing, focusing on
grammar, style, and different writing genres. It utilizes a "teacher-led" model with both online and print materials,  live online writing classes, online tools like IEW Gradebook, and printed materials like workbooks and DVD’s.

WriteShop I Student Workbook, an incremental writing program

WriteShop provides a comprehensive curriculum with step-by-step lessons, writing prompts, and detailed teacher's guides. It covers various genres and emphasizes the writing process, giving them a solid foundation in descriptive, informative, and narrative writing.

Photo Credit: bravewriter.com

Brave Writer | Writing programs and online classes

This program is a more relaxed and creative approach to writing, emphasizing the joy of self-expression. It offers various courses and resources for different ages and writing styles. You have options for individuals or families with students of different ages.

Word Roots Beginning: Learning The Building Blocks of Better Spelling and Vocabulary

This company offers a range of writing workbooks and software programs that focus on grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills.

Photo Credit: apcentral.collegeboard.org

AP English Language and Composition

This course prepares students for the AP Language and Composition exam and focuses on analytical and
argumentative writing.

The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, 2nd Edition

Finally, your teens will write without dread! Have they almost given up on writing? Do they reach for the tissue box when you say, "Write an essay"? Do you worry they won't be ready for high school or college writing? Do they say they think of things to write but can't write them down? With THE POWER IN YOUR HANDS: WRITING NONFICTION IN HIGH SCHOOL, 2ND EDITION, they'll learn essay writing in a relaxed, nonthreatening atmosphere with a little humor thrown in.

Photo Credit: www.writeathome.com

WriteAtHome.com

Write at Home courses are very user-friendly and completely hands-off for the parents. They offer 8-week, semester, or year-long writing classes for students in high school.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

| Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Summer handwriting worksheets are perfect to keep fine motor and other writing skills sharp throughout the summer break. Or, if you school year-round, it gives your child a fun change of pace for their handwriting practice. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips. 

To really embrace the summer theme, we are also creating a summer writing station.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

And the beauty of it is that you can customize it for preschoolers all the way up to high school by personalizing it with challenging worksheets and inviting supplies.

Why would you want to make your child write through the summer?

There are plenty of reasons why you should, if not every day at least a couple times a week

BENEFITS OF SUMMER HANDWRITING WORKSHEETS PRACTICE

  • Strengthens hand and finger muscles.
  • Enhance dexterity and coordination.
  • Prevents summer learning loss.
  • Enhanced Cognitive Development.
  • Boosts memory and recall.
  • Improves focus and attention.
  • Preparation for the next academic year.
  • Makes the transition back to writing tasks smoother.
  • Encourages journaling and storytelling.
  • Provides an outlet for self-expression.
  • Build confidence in writing abilities.
  • Fosters a sense of accomplishment.

Also, look at more homeschool writing curriculum and tips.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

The best writing practice utilizes handwriting skills and creative writing, maybe even some grammar.

So, I have gathered up a little of each as they work hand in hand.

15 FREE SUMMER HANDWRITING WORKSHEETS

  1. Try Summer Writing Topics For Kids if you or they are at a loss for writing ideas and stop the stall.
  2. My Free Under the Sea Worksheets : Dive into the Ocean’s Wonders give your child practice with writing,drawing, and unscrambling.
  3. Tracing the Free Print Handwriting Worksheets for ABCs of Summer Fun daily is great practice, whether it’s on paper or you laminate them and use dry erase markers.
  4. What screams summer more than Ocean Themed Writing Prompts? A great way to get the creativity going.
  5. How about a free worksheet Summer Writing Challenge Calendar that gives an idea for each day.
  6. Summer Writing Activity
  7. Free Printable Summer Tracing Worksheets for Preschool
  8. Preschoolers can color and practice simple letter formation using Summer Alphabet Worksheets.
  9. For older children you will want to work on a skill like Cursive Summer Tracing Words Challenge.
  10. With just a little bit of writing the Summer Word Scramble is a great quick practice idea.
  11. Use these free Editable Writing Sheets for name practice, sight words, or any summer words you would like. If you have a vacation planned you can sneak in some words related to that.
  12. Free Printable Summer Theme Pre Writing Practice Tracing Paths for Toddlers & Preschoolers are for pre writers, great practice for developing fine motor skills and hand eye coordination.
  13. Easy and straightforward these Summer Months Coloring and Writing Pages familiarize younger children with summer months.
  14. A Summer Goals Printable Worksheet is good for elementary through high school.
  15. A blank Summer Bucket List that can be colored as well is a perfect blank slate for practicing writing while making summer plans.

Finally, look at how to make this fun summer themed writing station.

HOW TO MAKE A SUMMER HANDWRITING STATION

You will need:

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

First, begin by cutting out summer patterned scrapbook paper the size of your acrylic drawers and line them to create a fun backdrop for the season.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

To add another layer of fun you can let your child decorate the drawers with themed stickers as well.

When the next season comes along you can simply apply a bit of heat with a hair dryer to loosen up the adhesive and remove them, swapping them out for new ones.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

In one drawer place writing paper that is for whatever level your child is at, primary, wide, college-ruled, etc.

HOW TO MAKE A HANDWRITING STATION

You could also include some handwriting worksheets.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

In the other drawer add some envelopes, postcards, stickers, post-it notes, pencil sharpener etc…

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

Finally, fill up the sand bucket with pencils, markers, and pens in fun colors and different sizes.

You can just pop this on top for an inviting summer themed writing station.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

You can change out the stickers, use different types of paper, and include fun prompts like one of the worksheets listed above each week during the summer to keep it fresh.

Think about adding fun erasers, scented markers, and other items other than basic pens and pencils to make the writing station more inviting.

You might also occasionally include a treat or coupon for one like “go out for ice cream” once their handwriting practice is done.

Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station

Now that you have set  up a writing station that is summer themed your child can use it to write:

  • thank you notes for gifts received
  • postcards to friends and family
  • a short story
  • letters to pen pals
  • out favorite song lyrics
  • a summer menu for the week
  • a review of a book or movie

Then, use it to practice:

  • letters or numbers
  • their name and address
  • common sight words
  • short sentences

Finally, keep a summer journal, create a summer bucket list and write out each activity and creating a comic strip with captions give you a variety of activities.