I am always trying to find new ways to encourage writing and I would like to share an article with everyone that I found to be particularly interesting.

-Mr. Gibson

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Get your Middle Schooler Writing

 Sure, your middle schooler may be tech-savvy and “wired.” But that doesn’t mean she shouldn’t spend time working on some good old-fashioned writing! To encourage her to write:

• Invite her to blog. If your family keeps a blog, ask your child to post entries occasionally. Don’t expect her to write huge essays. But do have her update friends and relatives on what’s been happening at school and home lately. If she enjoys doing it, consider giving her a section of her own on your blog page. If your family doesn’t have a blog page, see if your child would like to create one. She can start by going to www.blogger.com.

• Let her post online reviews.  Is your child a big-time reader? Suggest that she log on to bookselling sites and write reviews of the best new titles. Is she a movie nut? Help her find a child-friendly site where she can add her two cents about the latest release. (As with anything online, make sure the sites are age-appropriate. Try www.commonsensemedia.org.)

• Give her stationery—and have her use it. Every so often, ask your child to write a letter to Grandma or Uncle Jim. Let her experience the rapidly fading art of letter writing. Although email.

and instant messages are quick and fun, they’re no substitute for putting pen to paper!