by Brian S. James

Created on: November 15, 2008   Last Updated: December 26, 2008

When I was a child the only thing I hated more than writing was reading. But within the last year, I read more than 40 books, and have grown to love writing online. There is hope for children who lack reading and writing skills, as well as those who just hate to do the work, and I am living proof of that.

There are ways to encourage the reading and writing skills, and some of them are easier than you may think. While many parents think that the quality of the teacher is the main thing of importance in regard to their children's reading and writing skills, this is not true. Parents have as much or more to do with the success and enjoyment their children have in these areas than do teachers. Students are at or around their homes for more of the day than they are at school, and therefore they are more affected by the things going on in their own neighborhoods and homes.

Parents who care deeply about their children's ability to read and write effectively should realize that the best thing they can do for their children is to show that it is important. Reading to children from an early age can make a huge difference. As an example, it is good if parents read for enjoyment instead of always turning on the television. Buying books that have subjects of interest to children is a great idea as well. Every child is different, and parents know best what will engage their children Even if the parents can't read or write well, they can at least talk with their children about the importance of literacy. They can bring people into their children's lives who will be good examples. This reinforcement at home is of as much or greater importance than what is happening at school, and all parents can find a way to encourage these skills.

Writing may seem boring to many students, but it doesn't have to be that way. Parents can suggest that their children write letters to editors of newspapers about subjects they are interested in, or write a letter to a favorite actor or sports star. Parents can find writing contests that their children may be interested in. Parents who use online writing websites to earn money can show their children the process, as money is sure to be of interest to many children. Many children enjoy keeping a personal journal, and that is also a great way to build skill and confidence in writing.

It is a mistake to leave all of a child's education to the school system. There are many great teachers, and yet in the end, a child's parents are more able to help in learning than the best of teachers. Great teaching that has no reinforcement in the home, is teaching that is likely not to make much of a difference. Reinforcement comes in many varieties. Parental support is extremely important. There is no one way to do this, but that is a good thing. Parents can show a lot of creativity in their support. The desire to help their children is just about all that is needed to start.

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