Adults are powerful role models for children .  What you do is as important as what you say.  Let your child see you writing messages such as:

• notes to friends
• thank you notes
• grocery lists
• e-mails
• letters

Read these aloud and ask if there is something your child would like to add.

To further encourage your child to write, try to provide a suitable place and a variety of materials.  Include the following:

• a quiet place
• a flat surface with room to write
• a comfortable chair
• good lighting
• pens, pencils, markers, pads of paper, stationary and envelopes

Some children will be motivated to write if seated near an adult who is also writing.  Listen as your child reads what she/he has written.  Remember, the purpose of writing is to convey a message.