Creative writing is not only an enjoyable activity for parents to do with their children, but it can also help kids in an academic sense and on a personal level. Children naturally have fabulous imaginations. Additionally this should be fostered using a variety of different methods. Here are some simple ideas from a co-educational school in Dover to get you started. 

Read Together Frequently

Aim to read with your child as frequently as you can because this will help them with various skills, from spelling and grammar to genres and character exploration. Reading together will also give you a chance to bond and spend quality one-to-one time together. If your child enjoys reading a particular genre or books by a specific author, this can help them to build their own style of writing.  

Change The Ending

You can start by suggesting they write a new ending to their favourite book. This shouldn’t be too difficult because the characters, plot and tone of voice have already been established. Make sure that when your child is practising their creative writing. They have chosen a topic that suits their interests, otherwise they won’t feel motivated to continue. 

Mind Mapping

One method used in public and private schools alike is mind mapping. The trick is to start with a theme in the middle and write all of the words and phrases that relate to this them across the page. For instance, if the theme is space some of the words might be: stars, planets, aliens, exploration, adventure, darkness, weightless etc. Preparing a mind map will help your child establish elements of a storyline and the characters.  

Helping Hand

If your child is struggling to begin their short story, you could help them by writing an opening sentence. Especially as this is often the hardest part. Alternatively, you could suggest a problem that their characters must resolve. Giving them some simple pointers like this will provide them with the inspiration they need and send their imagination in different directions.