How can I help my child become a better writer?

Parents, You can make a big difference
Make writing simple and fun

Provide a space to write
It's important for the child to have a good place to write (desk or table)
Provide good lighting

Have writing materials
Provide plenty of paper (lined and unlined)
Provide things to write and draw with (pens, pencils, crayons, markers, erasers)
Have envelopes, postcards, note cards and greeting cards available

Allow time
Help your child spend time thinking about a writing project
Good writers do a lot of thinking

Respond
Respond verbally or in writing
Let them know you're interested
Focus on what your child has written, not how it is written
Ignore minor errors, particularly when your child is just getting ideas together

Don't you write it!
Your child needs to feel ownership of their own writing

Praise
Be positive
Say something good about your child's writing
Is it descriptive, interesting, thoughtful?

Have your child draw and discuss the drawing
Drawing is the beginning stage of writing
Drawing helps the child organize their thoughts
Ask your child questions about their drawing