by Robert Lamber

Created on: November 25, 2008

Encouraging reading and writing skills

I took a snowball once to the top of a hill near my home. I wanted to test the theory that it would pick up speed and grow bigger as it rolled down the hill. Before I even released the snowball I could predict the outcome. Why? Because experience has told us what to expect. Sure enough my snowball grew bigger and picked up speed just before it knocked down my mailman! (Just kidding). No we don't take our children and roll them down a hill (although they probably would love us too), however the theory of momentum does carry over to reading and writing skills as well.

The fundamentals of reading and writing come from a constant and consistent exposure to the written word both verbally and physically. When children reach school age, this process is expanded upon to further develop these essential skills that are required in every day life. The problem we run into is that some children can travel down the mountain picking up speed (comprehension) and snow (reading and writing skills) faster than others.

Understanding what it takes to motivate and absorb information can encourage reading and writing skills. Here are a few examples on how to encourage the development and enjoyment of these essential skills: Let's start from pre-school age where it all begins:

Surround your environment with pictures and words. Tack up on your walls the letters of the alphabet so the child can see them. Maybe in the kitchen where you feed them so they can visualize their shapes. Sing the ABC's song as you feed them and point out the letters so they associate sound with shapes (It worked wonders for my daughter). Have colorful pictures of objects and words (simple stuff age related) all around your home.
When you travel by car, stroller, or just walking, point out signs and objects, especially signs: say them, spell them. This is all reinforcement for their brains as it transfers visual and verbal clues.
This one is a given. Read to them. Not only fairy tales and simple children's books when they are on your lap, but the newspaper. Never forget the importance of auditory clues. The more they see you read the more they will wish to emulate it.
Look closely at your child's likes and dislikes. Find reading material or games that perk up their interests.
Teach manners by writing the words (please, thank you, excuse me, etc.) on individual sheets of paper and introducing the word as you say it and explain what it means.
Writing skills: Have them trace words

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