Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by FIVE STAR® School Supplies. All thoughts and opinions are my own. While many students may prefer technology, the research shows that handwritten notetaking is better for synthesis and retention. Which is why I LOVE interactive notetaking for this reason and the depth of learning it encourages. Learn more about […]
Writing
Announcing Mrs. P’s 10th Annual K-4 Be-a-Famous Writer Contest: HEROES
Mrs. P (aka actress Kathy Kinney) has a mission –to spark the imaginations of students. Her FREE storytelling website MrsP.com and the annual Be-a-Famous Writer Contest are celebrating their 10th anniversary. This year, the theme of the writing contest for kids is heroes. Today Mrs. P shares her own literary heroes and how she selected this […]
20 Picture Books About Writing a Story (For Writing Workshop)
Teachers and parents, use these picture books to model the process of writing a story. Some of these books show how writers get ideas. Others show the challenges of plotting and drafting the words in a story. All are about a part of the process of storytelling. Kids need plenty of these examples to encourage […]
Write a Family Newsletter
Many of you send out or post family updates around the holidays. But this year, why not have your children write your family newsletter? In my writer’s workshop a few years ago, my students spent time learning the basics of the newspaper, writing using the 5 Ws, and writing a family newsletter. It’s something you […]
Gifts for Young Readers and Writers
You’re growing young readers and writers. So why not give gifts that encourage your kids to read and write? I love products that really get kids jazzed about literacy — even if it’s just a fun shirt or new book — don’t you? Don’t miss all my 2017 gift recommendations for kids here. Gifts […]
Spark Creative Writing with Storybird
Storybird provides artwork and templates for children to write picture books, longform books, and poetry. It’s a cool community site with lots of opportunities to spark creative writing. Teachers can use the site with students. Or parents and children can use it on their own at home. Spark Creative Writing with Storybird Click on CREATE to get started. […]
Journal Prompts for Kids
Kids sometimes need journal prompts to get started writing. Not all kids do. And not all kids need a prompt every time they write. It’s important to be flexible. However, your child is struggling with what to write, try a prompt or a book like Journal Sparks. You can always, always, always suggest that your child write about […]