Children often ask me how I got into writing? And I honestly respond "I didn't, it got into me!"And when I ask kids what has gotten into them, they bubble over with excitement and can't wait to share their passions with me. And many times writing may not be one of their passions, but writing about something they love empowers children to write confidently,joyfully and from their hearts.

Creative writing falls into two categories. Inspired writing and invited writing. Invited writing (or more affectionately known as the student assignment) proves to be more challenging for many children. For most children and those of us who are young at heart, inspired writing will show up like an unexpected visitor and overcome us wildly. It is in that moment that we are driven to express ourselves about an experience that has left an impact on us or changed us in some significant way. It's as if we have no choice than to write about this experience. Children are naturally uninhibited and inclined to express their inspirations in a variety of ways. And what could be more pure than to provide a clean piece of paper and a sharpened pencil to a child, encouraging them to begin this written expression process?

"Write from the Heart" is a wonderful writing project that combines community service with creative expression. It allows children to engage in ongoing community outreach opportunities and then invites them to document their experience through journalizing or essays or poetry. It makes for a great class project and may inspire the class to write a children's book on a specific topic. It celebrates the journey rather than the destination and emphasizes the multi intelligences.

When writing is introduced in a meaningful and fun way, it can be the greatest gift we can give our children. Emphasizing the process rather than the outcome can boost a child's confidence while cultivating a love for written expression. Releasing emotions onto the pages of a journal that no one ever has to see is liberating. Writing a letter of admiration to someone special is a wonderful way to express gratitude. Creating a story that flows effortlessly from one's heart and soul and fills the pages of a prospective book is beyond description.

Whether it is writing or some other passion, children need to worry less about how to get into something and more about doing what's gotten into them. Just ask a child "what's gotten into you?" and they will tell it to you straight!

Learn more about this author, Jayne Bonilla.
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