The Love of Writing
Jennifer J. Wheeler, Manager — WHYY's Children's Service
So often in our journey as parents and educators to teach, inspire, and instill of love of reading in our children, we forget about a component that is equally important to that, the love of writing. After our children master the motor skills to produce letters and numbers, we sometimes forget that writing fosters creativity and taps into the imagination of our children. It gives children an outlet to express their own ideas and an opportunity to share how they see the world. It gives them a voice to be heard.
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Reading Rainbow airs on WHYY at 2:00pm. Actor Levar Burton, the beloved host, models a love of books, reading, and writing for all children and adults alike. He gives children a voice by giving them a chance to share their favorite books and encouraging creativity in writing and illustrating. The Reading Rainbow Young Writers and Illustrators Contest is now in it's thirteenth year. This nationwide contest is open to students in kindergarten through third grade.
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Is it too cold outside to play? Are the kids restless with the winter weather? Why not encourage your child to enter the Reading Rainbow Young Writers and Illustrators Contest? First and second place winners are selected from each of the four grade levels and all local first place winners get submitted to go to the national competition.
How does my child enter? The rules and entry form are available online. The deadline for entries is March 30th, 2007 and can be submitted to:
2007 Reading Rainbow Contest
WHYY
150 North 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Writing books are available to help kids with these skills and to help parents and educators foster a love of writing. Here are some suggestions:
For the Kids:
Once Upon a Time: Creative Writing Fun For Kids by Annie Buckley and Kathleen Cole
Exciting Writing: A Handbook for Kids by Lisa Funari Willever
Time for Kids Ready, Set, Write!: A Handbook for School and Home by Editors of Time Magazine
For Parents and Educators:
The Magic Pencil: teaching Children Creative Writing: Exercises and Activities for Children, Their Parents, and Their Teachers by Eve Shelnutt
99 Ways to Get Kids to Love Writing: And 10 Easy Tips for Teaching them Grammar by Mary Leonhardt
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