While of course this blog generally focuses on crafts when it comes to creativity, I am happy to write about encouraging a passion for writing in kids and teens, as any creative outlet is a wonderful thing! And of course writing can go hand in hand with art or music, and is all in all a very important skill at the least, and quite possibly a life enhancing passion! As with anything, writing takes practice and developing a love for writing might be something that takes a bit of time as well as some encouragement. If you have kids or teens in your life that are very language focused, namely first of all they love to read more than anything else, they are great candidates to become writers. From personal experience I can say that my children who spent hours with their nose in a book became teens with strong writing skills.
Okay great, now that you've identified a potential writer, or heard from them that they are interested in writing, how do you encourage them? A first step might be to find some good books on the topic and why not give washingtoncitypaper.com a go to find everything you might need. Of course there isn't one way, but some gentle coaching together with a meaningful gift or gifts might just have the impact you are looking for. As we all know, no great writer is born overnight, so don't forget to follow up down the road to see how things are going. But first, lets think about that perfect gift to help encourage a passion for writing in kids and teens, and I've got ten ideas to get you started, so keep on reading......
1. A Journal
A journal makes a great gift idea for almost anyone, and especially someone who loves to write! There are many kinds of journals on the market, and even journals with removable leather covers, so have fun choosing something that is truly special.
A journal is a great place to experiment with language style or even just have fun jotting down memories or conversations. While a sketchbook is a place for an artist to experiment, a journal is a place where a writer too can explore thoughts and ideas conveyed by putting pen to paper, or even record their journey. Some writers keep journals as they are a safe place for lists of ideas, or story lines. Journals are also often a place for unstructured free writing, or creative writing exercises using writing prompts.
2. A Special Pen
There is nothing quite like a special pen to help someone remember that you are there cheering them on! Pens come in a wide range of costs and styles, and can even be engraved. And of course maybe that pen will be the tool that encourages them to put words on paper and truly begin the journey as a writer.
3. Great Stationary, Preferably Personalized
4. A Dip Pen
A dip pen and ink or even a set of colored and metallic ink makes a wonderful gift that not only connects us with writers of the past, but allows us to slow down and consider the journey. A dip pen is certainly an unexpected gift and especially wonderful for someone who appreciates vintage items and values history.
5. A Vintage Typewriter
A vintage typewriter is an amazing gift that is not only useful but makes a wonderful home accessory. Do spend a bit more to get a typewriter that has been checked out for performance, cleaned up, and has a new ribbon. Since it is a gift, you want to make sure that is actually works properly. And do type a note on the typewriter to the recipient and leave it in the typewriter!
6. A Great Looking Bag And Water Bottle
Encourage your budding writer to take their writing on the road by gifting them a great looking bag and maybe even a water bottle/thermos. For an even more complete gift add a journal tothe bag and possible a pencil case and give that amazing gift! 7. A Word Poetry Game Or Fridge Magnets
If you are looking for a family friendly gift to encourage writing and creativity with language word poetry games are perfect. The whole family can produce stories, poetry, and messages for the fridge and have a great time doing so. I love the idea of making the writing journey a family activity, so maybe a game like this is just one idea, while mailboxes for writing stories to one another might be another idea?
8. Dedicated Writing Space Or Desk
If you are looking for a large gift or even a way to do something special without actually spending money, how about finding a place in your home that your budding writer can use as their own dedicated writing space? Desks come in all shapes and sizes, and there are even wall mounted table tops that fold down when not is use, which is very handy if space is a premium. Or consider painting some vintage furniture in a bright color for a cool budget friendly option that is truly thoughtful and memorable! Writing outdoors can also be wonderful when the weather permits, so why not pick up some wicker outdoor furniture as well! And truth be told, top essay writer companies are always a good add on gift option since they can learn many secrets and tips from professionals.
9. A Nice Bookcase
Most people that love to write love books as well, and likely have a large collection even at a young age. A new bookcase is a great way to honor that love, and can be something small or even quite extravagent, you decide, either way, it is truly a great gift.
10. Writing Guides, A Thesaurus And A Dictionary
While a dictionary, thesaurus and various writing guides might seem like a boring gift, they also might end up being a very useful and practical gift, so consider adding them on to one of the gift suggestions above. Plus sometimes it is the practical gift in the end that really does help with kids writing and improving verbal skills in general.
What's the one thing you recommend young writers keep close by? Without a doubt, a thesaurus. Depending on their maturity level, they may need one to help them complete their statements with appropriate wording. Teens and preteens who like writing are always on the lookout for the perfect word. The Thesaurus of the Senses, for example, allows one to more fully describe the world around them via their five senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell.
That is it, I hope you've figured out the perfect gift for your budding writer, and good for you, for loving and supporting them!
