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writing

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

April 3, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Calligraphy writing for kids can be a great way to get them excited about writing in general and has so many benefits. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips.

Calligraphy is the art of writing beautifully and expressively.

In addition to being a creative outlet, calligraphy can also help kids improve their writing skills overall.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

If your older child is a reluctant writer, calligraphy can be just the method to get them interested in writing.

They may put more effort into their handwriting through the beautiful artwork it creates.

To get you started on your own calligraphy writing for kids journey I have included some resources.

For example, practice pages, tools, tips, the benefits of writing calligraphy, and a review of a set I found that has everything you need and more.

Then, look at the benefits of calligraphy.

BENEFITS OF CALLIGRAPHY FOR HANDWRITING

Increased Confidence. Mastering the art of calligraphy can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Improved Legibility. Calligraphy emphasizes the importance of clarity and precision in letterforms, which can lead to improved overall legibility. It teaches kids how to control their pen or pencil. This is an important skill for all writers, as it helps to create legible and consistent handwriting.

Motor Skill Enhancement. The repetitive nature of calligraphy exercises helps to strengthen fine motor skills and coordination.

Increased Focus and Concentration. Calligraphy requires a high degree of focus and concentration, which can help to improve attention span and reduce stress.It can help kids improve their focus and concentration. When kids are focused on creating beautiful letters, they are less likely to be distracted by other things.

Creative Expression. Calligraphy allows for artistic expression and self-expression through the creation of unique and visually appealing letters.

Relaxation and Mindfulness The slow and deliberate movements involved in calligraphy can promote relaxation and mindfulness, making it a therapeutic activity.

Improved Hand-Eye Coordination. Calligraphy requires precise hand-eye coordination to create smooth, flowing lines and shapes.

Improves fine motor skills through holding the pens properly and carefully forming their letters.These skills are essential for many everyday activities, such as buttoning clothes, tying shoes, and playing musical instruments.

Historical and Cultural Appreciation. Learning calligraphy can provide an appreciation for the history and culture of different writing systems.

It can help kids develop their appreciation for language. When kids learn about the history and traditions of calligraphy, they gain a greater understanding of the written word.

There are endless possibilities and  kids can experiment with different styles and techniques to create their own unique works of art.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

Then, look at some fun ways to practice calligraphy.

CALLIGRAPHY RESOURCES

  1. 25 Free Practice Sheets For Calligraphy (+ Tutorials)
  2. Hand Lettering 101: A Step By Step Calligraphy Workbook
  3. Quill Feather Dip Pen Set
  4. Vintage Watercolor Paper
  5. Modern Calligraphy Series
  6. How to Prepare Calligraphy Nibs
  7. Outschool Modern Calligraphy Basics 101: Modern Calligraphy Class for Beginners
  8. 150 Short Quotes for Lettering and Calligraphy Practice

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Finally, look at this gorgeous writing kit that will breathe life into your writing day.

CALLIGRAPHY WRITING FOR KIDS REVIEW

I found this beautiful calligraphy writing set for kids on Amazon that includes not only the calligraphy basics but more,

It has a feather dip pen but also a glass dip pen, a wooden dip pen as well as 6 different colored bottles of Ink.

And an ink and pen holder, metal wax seal stamp, 2 bottles of wax sealing beads, glass cup, wax melting spoon, letter opener, and 17 different sizes stainless steel replaceable nibs.

Also, it has 1 round white wax, a vintage envelope, and vintage writing paper all in a lovely gift box.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

I am by no means a calligraphy expert and just began learning myself but did learn a few things along the way to help me.

Hold your pen at a 45℉ angle to the paper.

Start with simply practicing making lines and squiggles just to get used to the weight and shape of the pen and the way the ink moves on the paper.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

Write your words or phrases in pencil so that you don’t have to worry about the letter formation.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

Clean your nibs in a cup of warm water and then wipe dry with a cloth or paper towel.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

Test out different nibs to see what each does and its thickness.

Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids

Use a light hand on the upward strokes and press harder on the downward strokes.

You can practice with regular pens or markers by writing your words and going back to thicken what would be the downstrokes to give it the look of calligraphy.

If your child takes to calligraphy writing, invest in some good paper, pens, and maybe some tutorial books to encourage that new interest.

You will see above I linked wonderful resources for practice, instruction, and some supplies as well.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hand writing, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, writing

How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations

April 2, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have tips on how to choose writing curriculum for struggling writers. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips.

Let’s look at some of the possible reasons for your struggling writer.

And how to choose a curriculum to address those needs so that they can succeed.

How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations

Math and writing are the two subjects that most homeschool families say cause the most grief on a daily basis.

Writing can be a challenging skill for many students, but it is an essential skill for success in school and beyond.

Struggling writers will need extra support to develop their writing skills.

UNDERSTANDING THE WRITING PROCESS

Writing is a complex process that involves many skills and brain functions, including:

  • Conceptualization
  • Fine motor skills
  • Language processing
  • Spatial perception
  • Working memory
  • Organization.
  • Orthographic coding

There are many reasons why a child could be struggling with writing.

For example, it could be a lack of understanding of grammar and structure, poor grasp on vocabulary, writer’s block, lack of ideas, and lack of interest in the subject or topic.

How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations

But sometimes it is more than a child who isn’t trying or needs a little extra lesson in grammar, creative writing, or vocabulary.

HOW TO CHOOSE WRITING CURRICULUM FOR STRUGGLING WRITERS

For example, it can be a learning disability.

Children with learning disabilities such as dyslexia or dysgraphia may have difficulty with reading, writing, and spelling. They may also have trouble with memory and organization.

Dysgraphia is a neurological condition where someone has difficulty turning their thoughts into written language for their age and ability.

And to think even with consistent exposure to adequate instruction and education.

It is very common to come hand in hand with adhd, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, selective language impairment, and developmental coordination disorder.

Symptoms of dysgraphia can include:

  • Difficulty forming letters and words.
  • Poor handwriting.
  • Difficulty with spelling.
  • Difficulty organizing thoughts on paper
  • Slow writing speed.
  • Lack of fine motor coordination in general.
  • Avoiding writing activities.

Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects how a person reads, writes, and spells. It is caused by differences in the brain that impact how language is processed.

People with dyslexia are often bright and creative, but they may struggle with traditional methods of teaching.

This obviously makes writing a challenge!

Here are some of the common symptoms of dyslexia:

  • Poor handwriting
  • Difficulty with reading, writing, and spelling
  • Slow and labored reading
  • Difficulty sounding out words
  • Confusing letters and words
  • Difficulty with rhyming
  • Difficulty with following directions

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students

  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges

Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers

Are you looking for a writing curriculum for struggling writers when it's more than just a lack of effort and interest in writing?

Dyslexia Games

Dyslexia Games by Thinking Tree breaks it down to the very basics and takes the approach of using logic and puzzle games to “trigger” the "artistic" right side of the brain into reading and writing.

Learning with Literature

Intelligent children, while they want to be obedient, often have a hard time writing if they don't find the topic relevant to their life or just plain interesting. I love to customize each part of a child's homeschool curriculum to their unique personality and interests when possible.

This includes handwriting, creative writing,grammar lessons and all other parts of solid writing instruction.

For handwriting here are many workbooks that are topic specific like Cursive With The Hobbit, Anne of Green Gables and more.

Growing with Grammar: Grade 3 (Student Manual)

Growing With Grammar lets children work independently to improve grammar skills, it is easy to check for parents, and can be incorporated 3 times a week.

Gross Me Out Mad Libs: World's Greatest Word Game

We have used Mad Libs many times over the years to make learning parts of speech fun and yes just downright silly. It really helps the lessons stick with repetitiveness and creates a core memory too with all the laughter.

Daily Word Ladders: Reproducible Word Study Lessons That Help Kids Boost Reading, Vocabulary, Spelling & Phonics Skills--Independently!

Word Ladders are a fun daily practice tool to boost reading, vocabulary, spelling & phonics skills. A sheet a day also helps with critical thinking and decoding skills which will give them confidence and in turn help with writing.

Word of the Day: 366 Elevating Utterances to Stretch Your Cranium and Tickle Your Humerus

A word of the day calendar for kids is something fun for them to look forward to each morning while building their reading and vocabulary skills.

Photo Credit: www.goodandbeautiful.com

Creative Writing Notebooks

I love how The Good and The Beautiful Creative Writing incorporates creative writing exercises in a simple and non overwhelming way. Created for grades 3-8 it covers a wide age range and teaches skills like adding sensory descriptions, generating ideas, using gestures to show emotion, creating engaging characters and plots, writing dialogue, overcoming writer’s block, and much more! The notebook contains five sections: Descriptive Writing Practice, Writing Exercises,Story Starters,Poetry, and Full Stories.

Learning Without Tears

It may just be that your child is struggling with print or cursive writing and is so focused on getting that right they are struggling with getting their thoughts down on paper. 

Give them confidence in their writing with a curriculum that helps them develop the skill.

Handwriting Without Tears has been a staple for many families for years for good reason, for its structured format, multisensory approach, and engaging activities.

It is intended for Pre-K through 5th grade but I think it would still have benefits in the older grades for a child that needs more handwriting instruction, their books cover print and cursive instruction.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hand writing, handwriting, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, teachingwriting, writing

The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency

April 1, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Improve your child’s writing efficiency with the best writing tools for students. Also, look at my page Practical Homeschool Writing Curriculum from Pre-K To High School for more tips.

No matter what the challenge is there are tools to help.

There is no magical item that will suddenly make your child enjoy writing or improve it overnight.

The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency

However, there are many more aids now than ever before. Many were not available when I first started.

There are so many wonderful aids that can be used to help over time.

Writing requires visual coordination, core strength, fine motor skills, and hand strength.

Is your child’s handwriting sloppy, they struggle forming letters correctly or holding a pencil properly after much instruction?

They may benefit from occupational therapy for handwriting problems. But before you do that, try some of my tried-and-true tips.

But the right tool may be as simple as enticing them with new pens, paper, or they may need a little extra help with grip or the angle of the paper.

MORE HOMESCHOOL WRITING CURRICULUM & TIPS

  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 1
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 2
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • Faith-Neutral Homeschool Grammar and Writing Program
  • 3 Ways to Choose the BEST Writing Curriculum (for a Growing Homeschool Family)
  • Why It Is Hard to Teach Homeschooled Kids Writing But Not Impossible
  • Homeschool Writing Program For Middle and High School Students
  • The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency
  • Creative Expression: The Magic Of Calligraphy Writing For Kids
  • Powerful Paragraphs: Free Give Me A Paragraph Form (Editable)
  • 8 Best Handwriting Games For Kids Ages 8-12 Will Love
  • Hands on Writing Activities | How to Make an On the Go Pencil Pouch
  • Discover the Best High School Writing Courses & Recommendations
  • How to Use Handwriting Without Tears Homeschool Multisensory Program
  • How To Choose Writing Curriculum For Struggling Writers & Recommendations
  • Energize Creativity: Free Writing Prompts for Middle School
  • Medieval Writing Utensils: Journey Through Time & How To Make A Penner
  • Free 30 Days PreK To High School Simple Writing Activities
  • Free Summer Handwriting Worksheets & Setting Up A Writing Station
  • Unlocking Imagination: A Guide to Elementary School Writing Topics
  • Best Strategies To Improve Handwriting And Overcome Challenges
The Best Writing Tools For Students: Improve Their Writing Efficiency

Take a look at the key items below that I think can help make a difference for your struggling writer.

WRITING TOOLS FOR STUDENTS

10 Writing Tools For Kids

Using the right tools when teaching handwriting or composition is important. Add some of these to your writing day.

Slant Board for Writing Adjustable Tilted Writing Board Sloped Surface to Improve Handwriting Legibility

Metal clip and portable design: equipped with metal clips to fix book paper, convenient for writing and painting; The writing board surface and support frame can be separated, making it easy to carry and allowing you to learn or create anytime, anywhere.

Micron Fineliner Pens - Archival Black Ink Pens - Pens for Writing, Drawing, or Journaling

Precise archival pens create fade resistant, waterproof, bleed free marks for drawing, artwork, journaling, and more

LEGO Stationery Pen Pal - LEGO Black Gel Pen and Classic Minifgure

Some pens are more comfortable to hold and write with than others. This can make a big difference for reluctant writers who may be more likely to give up if their pen is uncomfortable.

One Page A Day Handwriting Practice Paper for Kids

Your child or student will love to practice and learn their English printed letters and numbers on this lined and traceable manuscript paper made for basic language, printing, teaching, and learning. Created for grades one, two, and three, manuscript writing, they’re perfect for the classroom or home use and simplify handwriting, teaching, and learning through a visual format and self-correction. Put your school-age child on the path to consistent and quick development of standard printing with daily participation and education in handwriting exercises. You’ll likely see fast improvement in just a few weeks. This method works! In no time at all, your child will move from beginner’s status to improving to excellence.

Graph Paper Notebook 1 Inch Squares:

Occupational therapists use it for promoting spatial use, line use, helping children develop consistent letter size, and slowing down.

Special Supplies Egg Pen-Pencil Grips for Kids and Adults Colorful

Grips can help to reduce stress and anxiety related to writing because they can make writing more comfortable and easier,which can lead to a more positive experience.

Pencil Holder Grip Posture Correction Training Writing Aid.

Ergonomic Design: Three-finger grip for correcting faulty pen grip.

Pen or Pencil Weights | Handwriting Aid for Children, Elderly, or Special Needs. Assists with Penmanship Issues Due to Autism, Tremors, Grip Strength or Fine Motor Skill Disability

Fix Handwriting Problems: Adding 1.5oz weights to your pen or pencil can assist with various handwriting issues. The weighted pencil can help control its direction and stabilize your handwriting.

LCD Writing Tablet with Stylus

A simple LCD Tablet is erasable and makes a great on the go practice tool while driving in the car, waiting at the doctor, or for dinner.

Desk Chalkboard Wood Sign Chalkboard Double-Sided Chalkboard with Wooden Base

I always keep a personal chalkboard for morning time, travel, and random practice times.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, hand writing, handwriting, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, writing

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

November 17, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

There are so many fun handwriting activities for preschoolers before they ever need to pick up a pencil. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool Preschool.

These activities will build not only their letter recognition but also fine motor, gross motor, coordination, posture, and letter formation.

I think it is important for kids to get a good mix of writing with different materials, crayons, markers, and even their fingers.

They can also practice letter formation with sticks, playdough, paint and so much more.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Mix it up to keep it interesting for them and they will not even realize how much they are learning and developing as it will seem like play.

I have found 11 fantastic ideas for writing in all the stages for preschoolers to get you started. Including some resources that would be a great addition to your preschool.

Too, I also have an easy cranberry sauce writing tray tutorial for you that is completely taste-safe and is a fun new texture for kids to try that sensory seekers will love.

Resources for Teaching Pre-Writing to Preschoolers

9 Preschool Writing Resources for Pre-Writers for Readiness to Write

Preschool means pre or before writing. That means they are not ready to write. You are teaching them prewriting activities to strengthen their fine motor skills.

Wooden Letters Practicing Board, Double-Sided Alphabet Tracing Tool Learning

 This Wooden Letters Practicing Board would get a lot of use. I see it in car rides, doctors' offices, waiting at restaurants, and many other times to keep them busy while they learn.

Magnetic Letters Double-Side Magnet Board - Foam Alphabet Letters for Kids Spelling and Learning

These magnetic letters kit is great because it grows with your child from first learning to write letters to simple sight words and right on through more advanced spelling words. I like items that you can get years of use out of.

Learning Without Tears - Pre-K Writing Book - Social-Emotional, Pre-Writing Skills

Once they are ready for writing, if you need a solid program to use for yearly evaluations or just to
see the progress on their own, Handwriting Without Tears is a very popular option.

Alphabet Learning Toys for Toddlers

271 Pcs Alphabet Sounds Teaching Tubs] Alphabet Learning Toy Set includes 26 Cardboard Cans with Plastic Lids, 52 Letter Cards (Uppercase and Lowercase each 26), and 193 Photo Cards
to encourage toddlers early learning of spelling and memory of corresponding objects.

Pre-Writing Basic Patterns Stencils

These tracing templates fine-tune developing motor skills, strengthen muscle-memory, and introduce essential writing elements

Preschool Skills: Tracing, Cutting, and Gluing, Scissor Skills, Fine Motor

If you are looking for ways to help your child get ready for school, or just looking to help them develop fine motor skills then this is the book for you! Developed by teachers, with the top skills that teachers look for in their students entering Kindergarten. This book will help your child learn how to trace lines, and use scissors and glue properly.

Crayons in a Rock Shape, 32 Count, Tripod Grip Made For Handwriting Development in Kids and Toddler

CRAYON ROCKS - Are simply the best coloring tool for young children! Made in rural Kentucky, USA from soybean wax, they are vibrantly colored and create beautifully textured child artwork similar to oil pastels.

2 Pack LCD Writing Tablet for Kids, Electronic Writing Pad, Colorful Doodle Board Drawing

LCD Writing Tablets for kids are so much fun and will encourage practice drawing and writing with very little encouragement from you

ReadyWriter Classic Edition : Stylus Skills, Printing, and Penmanship

One of my favorites that has been around for years for ages 4 to 8. Learn to write by drawing pictures and doing fun activities.

Also, look at more how to homeschool preschool activities.

How to Homeschool Preschool Activities

  • A Unique Flexible and Beautiful Preschool Homeschool Planner
  • How to Teach Homeschool Preschool From the Inside Out (And Preschool Skills)
  • Celebrate World Jellyfish Day With A Jellyfish in a Jar Preschool Activity
  • Fun Bat Anatomy Toilet Paper Roll Craft | 8 Bat Science Activities Preschool
  • Fun Resources and Books About The Human Body For Preschoolers
  • Make Cute Felt Leaf Sachets For Fall Leaf Crafts for Preschoolers
  • Fun Corn Life Cycle Preschool Sensory Bin and Printable Lifecycle Foldout
  • 10 Egg Carton Crafts For 2 Year Olds and Fun Nature Color Match Activity
  • Learn About Indigenous Animal Geography Fun Activity for Preschool to Elementary
11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Then look at these fun handwriting activities.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities for Preschoolers

  1. Before writing you can use playdough to learn about forming letters like with the Playdough Mat Name Forming activity here.
  2. This Rainbow Rice Sensory Writing Tray is tons of fun and most of us have plenty of rice in the pantry so give it a try.
  3. There will be lots of ooey-gooey writing practice with this Slime Writing Tray where they can use their fingers or something else to write with.
  4. If you want to avoid the mess or your child just doesn’t like messy hands try this idea for Shaving Cream Writing in a bag.
  5. A different take on the shaving cream but keeping the mess contained is to learn How to Make Sensory Bags PLUS a Letter and Number Card FREEBIE
  6. Who needs a pencil when you have a pile of fun play dough and a skewer? Check out this Play-Dough Writing Tray.
  7. I really love this idea for Q-Tip letter tracing, who knew such a simple household item could be so useful?
  8. How creative is this idea for Icy Letter Writing? A fun activity for winter or a great way to cool down and practice in the summer.
  9. Break out the watercolor paints for this Simple Watercolor Activity for name and handwriting practice.
  10. Prewriting activities like these DIY Alphabet Lacing Cards help a child learn letter recognition and formation while building the muscles and coordination they will need for actual writing.
  11. Pushpin Letters are good for coordination, and fine motor skills, and will help your child learn the grasp they will need for writing with a pencil correctly
11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Finally, look at how to make this easy cranberry sauce writing tray.

Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

You will need:

  • Shallow tray or dish
  • Canned cranberry sauce, pureed
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Cardstock
  • Marker

First, open cranberry sauce and stir to break it up and make it as smooth as you can.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Pour into the tray and smooth it out with the bottom of the can.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Draw shapes, letters, and numbers on cardstock with a marker.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Cut them out, if you would like them to be able to be used often you may want to laminate them so they can easily be wiped off after messy play like this one.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

You can also add a handful of fresh cranberries to explore a different texture but also they can be used to count when a child writes numbers with their fingers.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Look at that fine motor work!

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Encourage letter and number writing but also free play in the sensory bin to make it a well-rounded experience.

I highly recommend taking this one outside or at least placing a plastic shower curtain liner under the area as it can be pretty sticky.

11 Fun Handwriting Activities For Preschoolers | Easy Cranberry Sauce Writing Tray

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: cranberries, fine motor skills, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, handwriting, homeschool preschool, preschool, teachingwriting, writing

How to Rock Homeschool Creative Writing (when you don’t feel like THAT creative mom)

June 26, 2023 | 8 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have tips for homeschool creative writing. Also, you’ll love the tips on my post Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison).

Have you ever fumbled your way through teaching a homeschool subject?

Then realize later that you gave your children an amazing start?

It’s not a teaching method I tout because blunders don’t always turn out so productive.

However, teaching is partly influenced by what we were taught growing up.

And homeschool creative writing was a painful process for me.

How to Rock Homeschool Creative Writing (when you don’t feel like THAT creative mom)

In middle school, I wasn’t given a specific and detailed explanation of what is creative writing.

For example, I was told to write creatively.

But as a child I thrived with details, planning and wanted specificity.

My teacher was naturally creative and it was almost a lethal combination for me.

My middle school teacher thought I couldn’t relax and let thoughts flow or so it seemed.

And I thought my teacher didn’t know how to teach because she was unclear in her assignment and didn’t mind the details or so I thought.

How to Rock Creative Writing When Homeschooling (and when you don't feel like THAT creative mom) @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Until I started homeschooling my own children, I didn’t really grasp what my teacher was excited about.

Hoping to bridge the difference between exceptional homeschool teachers who are naturally creative and those who can be when they clearly understand the assignment, look at three things I learned the hard way.

Freedom from the Homeschool Curriculum Box

Progress can be made only when both the homeschool teacher and student understand that creative writing is a natural inward expression of creativity unchained from rules.

That is powerful if you think about it.

It is about emotions, thoughts, and self-expression. It’s about you and who doesn’t like talking (or writing) about their self.

In explaining creative writing to my boys, I used the example of a group photo taken by one of their friends.

When my boys’ friends show them the photo, can you guess what my boys look at first? Yep. They look for themselves first in the picture.

We can’t help it, it’s natural. We want to see how we look.

What is Homeschool Creative Writing

Creative writing is like finding yourself in that photo.

Naturally creative teachers know that putting thoughts on paper is the outside of what is brimming on the inside of an individual.

Once explained to a child, he can bring comical thoughts, deep emotions and even fears to the surface for writing topics.

Digging up those thoughts in a child’s mind may require effort on the part of a teacher.

Key to unleashing creative topics for your child to write about is reading aloud to your child.  Not only will reading aloud foster their imagination, but it helps your child to find their inner voice for writing.

Though I didn’t fully understand all the benefits of reading aloud when I started homeschooling, I reaped the benefits of doing it each day.

When I turned my boys loose, my sons could write pages and pages of stories based on their wild imagination that was stimulated by excellent literature.

How to Rock Homeschool Creative Writing (when you don’t feel like THAT creative mom)

After they would write pages and pages, I failed again. I switched to teacher mode. Correcting grammar and errors is what I thought writing was all about.

That wasn’t working because I almost created a resistant writer with my first son because I had stifled his creativity.

I learned after a battle of wills to not be part of the problem. Be part of the solution.

Thinking that my oldest son had to make a point to the endless stories he was penning was the second mistake I made.

Being a product of my schooling, I had been taught to be clear, concise and brief in my speech and writing.

Those qualities are important as I learned, but not to the extent that they diminish my son’s love for words and expressing emotions through artfully contrived words.

Being part of the solution is to let your child write without fear of being overly corrected, mechanical or trying to make their writing fit your boxed curriculum.

More Homeschool Creative Writing Tips

  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)
  • 5 Creative Ways to Boost Handwriting in Older Kids
  • Cursive Matters; Handwriting Style Doesn’t + Free Resources
  • Teaching Handwriting When Homeschooling the Early Years Part 3

From my childhood and experience teaching my first child who was similar to my learning style, I knew that if told him that creative writing was like painting with no rules, he would add his flair to his writing. And he did.

Also, I learned to not bring my teacher mode to the table and start correcting his paper or in other words smother an ember before it becomes a flame.

And I always added in a good dose of reading aloud each day to help all my boys find their style for writing.

Adding creative writing to your curriculum can be challenging but having confident writers years later has been worth every effort.

But I learned a few more things too. 

I learned to use my teaching strengths as a spring board to creative writing ideas.  And I learned how to help my kids create and brainstorm for writing topics.

8 Writing and Composition Resources For All Ages

Whether you’re teaching handwriting, composition, or creative writing solid tips come from having an abundance of composition and materials to choose from.

Aesop for Children: Story and D'Nealian Copybook Volume I (Aesop for Children Story and Copybook)

The Aesop for Children Story and D'Nealian Copywork Book, Volume I, includes seventy-three original unabridged fables illustrated by Milo Winter. Also included are copywork selections using the moral of each fable in D'Nealian style manuscript with adequate space for students to copy the included examples in their best handwriting. How to Teach Copywork:Copywork can seem simplistic. Give your child a sentence or two and have them copy it. It can also seem like busy work, but the benefits are great! Copywork is a simple introduction to handwriting, spelling, and composition. Have children copy only the best authors, with the best writing, and ideas to fill their growing minds. When to begin copywork:Once a child learns how to write their letters comfortably, they are ready to start simple copywork. Start with very short sentences and have them copy it, always in their best handwriting. 

Writing Strands: Beginning 1

Learn basic communication skills with this updated Writing Strands curriculum for a new generation!

This Beginning 1 course was created for students learning to write sentences and paragraphs on their own. The assignments gently guide students through their work each day, helping them master basic writing with unique exercises on dialogue, reporting, interviews, role playing, persuasion, story writing, and organizing and grouping ideas.

Writing with Ease: Level 1 Workbook (The Complete Writer)

In Writing with Ease, Susan Wise Bauer lays out an alternative plan for teaching writing, one that combines the best elements of old-fashioned writing instruction with innovative new educational methods. The Complete Writer workbooks (each sold separately) complement this plan with lessons, student worksheets, and teacher instructions for every day of writing instruction. Each covers one year of study. Used along with Writing with Ease, The Complete Writer, Level One (first in a four-volume set) complete the elementary-grade writing curriculum.

Jump In, 2nd Edition: Middle School Composition

ump In, 2nd Edition retains the step-by-step features of the first edition and its conversational style, along with some humor to ease the fright of writing! Students master the art of writing paragraphs, different types of paragraphs, topic sentences, and main ideas (thesis statements). They also practice writing nine types of essays and one research report. Proofreading lessons are included, along with suggested writing schedules and specific student checklists for each essay assignment.Let student-directed Jump In, 2nd Edition teach composition for you. A suggested writing schedule and checklist come with every essay assignment.Teachers will enjoy the new grading grids for each essay in the Teacher’s Guide, making grading much easier.Middle school. Two semesters. 98 daily lessons.

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. This 2ND EDITION includes proofreading marks and exercises, a new chapter on common grammar mistakes, and numbered lessons to easily keep track of daily lessons. This course teaches your teens what they need to know for high school and will be prepare them for college writing: persuasion, compare-and-contrast essays, literary analysis, a research paper with MLA documentation, and much more. In addition, students will learn how to write description and narration essays. Beginning writers will feel safe, and advanced writers will enjoy Digging Deeper lessons.

Photo Credit: www.writingrockstars.com

Writing Rockstars

Homeschooling Students Improve Writing Skills With Our Online Writing Program

The Art of Poetry

If you have ever felt mystified by, or unable to enjoy the significance of poetry, this book will lead you step by step to understanding and love of this branch of literature, guided by a gifted poet and teacher. The Art of Poetry is an excellent middle school or high school curriculum; it will teach the practice of reading a poem slowly and carefully, introduce students to the elements of poetry (such as imagery and metaphor) and the many forms that can make a poem, from sonnet to open verse. In the belief that practice is the best way to learn, this book is rich with explications, exercises, and activities. A biography of each poet is also included, and we are providing audio files of many of the poems.

Cover Story Set

Curriculum is a creative one-year writing curriculum for middle school students

Later I realized that I don’t have to give up details, planning or specificity when writing. I will share specific details in an upcoming post about how I used my strengths to make creative writing flourish.

What about you? Are you afraid to step out of the box and teach creative writing?

You can do it!

8 CommentsFiled Under: Middle School Homeschool, Teach Homeschool Language Arts Tagged With: composition, handwriting, homeschoolanguagearts, language arts, languagearts, teachingwriting, writing

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