One of the most important basic skills a child will need throughout their education is writing. This is a skill they will utilize, hone and improve during school and well beyond their graduation and into adult life. Parents should take note that if they want their children to excel in school, be able to creatively express themselves and to become more independent, then parents should assist their children with writing.

There are more reasons than one can count that make up the importance of writing in a child’s life. Daily responsibilities as an adult can consist of writing notes, directions and lists for ourselves and for others. Regardless of field or career choice, most occupations will require writing in any form including letters, memos, reports, etc. Now more than ever, social relationships also utilize the skill of writing to a great extent. This can include everything from cordial Christmas cards, thank you notes and greetings to extensive e-mail contact and letters to friends and family.

The benefits from writing for a student go beyond the daily routine and necessities. It is important that they feel comfortable and confident in their ability to write, as it will assist them in expressing themselves in terms of their feelings that sometimes cannot be used verbally as well. This can also be used to help to organize thoughts and ideas. Writing different ideas and expressions on paper can help a student visualize and come to better conclusions.

Today’s students are often not meeting high expectations with their writing skills in such things as persuasive writing and the like through the school system alone. This can be due to a number of different factors. Some teachers simply are not trained to teach writing at the level where students need to be at different phases in their education. It can also be incredibly difficult to grade these skills when the class size reaches large proportions. The amount of attention needed to be given to each individual student would not be possible in the time frame allowed in a given class session. In addition, it can often be difficult to grade skills in writing simply because sometimes it is a matter of opinion or perspective depending on the type of writing involved.

Research shows that many students struggle with writing skills that show clear and concise ideas and thoughts that are written in a strong and coherent manner. Business writing such as cover letters, sales reports and business letters are an example where many lack these skills.

These studies are an indication that we, as parents, should not leave all of this focus to the school system but should also work to prepare children for school and assist them with writing throughout their education. There are also tutoring centers and education facilities that specialize in writing that can be of great assistance for those who don’t feel they can give their children the help and time commitment or guidance in this skill at home.