The Art of the Written Word:

How to level up your kids’ writing

— Words by David Truong

In an increasingly digital world, the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and persuasively through writing remains an invaluable skill. For parents, nurturing this capacity in their children can feel like a daunting task amidst the whirlwind of modern life. Yet, as with any refined craft, mastering the written word isn't solely about innate talent; it's about thoughtful cultivation and consistent practice.

At Foci Education, we see firsthand the transformative power of a well-honed narrative. It's not just about acing exams; it's about fostering critical thinking, developing empathy, and empowering young minds to express themselves with confidence. So, how can you, as a parent, subtly but effectively guide your child on this enriching journey? Here are three fundamental approaches that can truly make a difference.

1. Get them a subscription for The Sydney Morning Herald

I mean it. Yes, it costs. But this is honestly a life changer for kids. There’s plenty to read out there, and they will read (believe it or not). So beat them to reading the trashy stuff and direct them towards quality publications and mastheads that will set them up for success. It might seem obvious, but the bedrock of good writing is robust and varied reading. Think of it as a chef tasting a diverse array of dishes to understand the nuances of flavour. A child who reads widely absorbs different sentence structures, vocabulary, narrative styles, and the sheer rhythm of language. This isn't just about reading age-appropriate fiction; it's about encouraging them to explore non-fiction, biographies, well-written articles, and even poetry (if they’re curious enough).

Create a home environment where reading is normal and cultural. Leave books in accessible places, discuss what you're reading, and make trips to the library a regular, enjoyable outing. The goal isn't to force a particular genre but to foster an intrinsic curiosity about stories and ideas. When they encounter well-crafted prose, they subconsciously begin to internalise the mechanics of effective communication, even from a young age.

2. Let them debate you

Writing, at its heart, is about communicating ideas. And where do ideas truly begin? In the act of thinking, questioning, and discussing. Engage your child in meaningful conversations about their day, current events, or even the relationships they have their life. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to articulate their thoughts and opinions, rather than just provide yes/no answers.

This isn't about formal debates, but about creating a space where inquiry is valued. If they ask "why?", engage with them. If they share an observation, ask them to elaborate. This practice strengthens their ability to organise their thoughts logically and express them verbally – a crucial precursor to putting those thoughts down on paper. Encourage them to observe the world around them, to notice details, and to consider different perspectives. This active engagement with their environment provides a rich wellspring of material for their writing.

3. Make Writing a Regular, Low-Stakes Endeavour

Often, the pressure of "writing something good" can paralyse a young writer. The key is to make writing a consistent, low-stakes activity that feels less like a chore and more like a natural extension of their thoughts. This could be anything from keeping a simple journal, writing short stories based on their favourite hobbies, penning letters to grandparents, or even contributing to a family "newsletter."

The focus, especially initially, shouldn't be on grammatical perfection or flawless spelling, but on the joy of expression. Provide gentle encouragement and positive feedback, focusing on the ideas they're conveying rather than correcting every comma. As they grow more comfortable, you can introduce concepts of structure, clarity, and conciseness. The aim is to build confidence and fluency, allowing them to see writing as a powerful tool for self-expression and connection.

By embracing these approaches, you're not just helping your child to improve their grades; you're equipping them with a foundational skill for life – the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and confidently navigate the complexities of the world through the power of the written word.