It’s very difficult to write for pleasure if you feel like you’re not very good at it.
Writerly confidence is fragile, especially in the early stages of learning to write. Children’s first encounters with their writer-teachers is therefore crucial because these encounters go on to shape children’s perceptions of themselves as writers.
1. Writing Is Hard But It Should Feel Like Child’s Play
In the early years, students must experience multiple successes in writing. It’s essential for them to feel that their writing matters and is valued by others. Writing should feel like child’s play—easy, possible, probable, and enjoyable.
- Learn more here -[Getting Children Up & Running As Writers In the EYFS-KS1]
2. It’s Not You, It’s Me
When students encounter failure, it’s vital for teachers to reflect on their instructional practices. If students are putting in effort but still struggling, it may indicate flaws in the school’s approach or teachers’ methods…
- Learn more here – [The Different Perspectives You Can Take On Teaching Early Writing]
3. Success Breeds Success
Proficiency in writing is a significant motivator. Success breeds success, and being a proficient writer fulfills various needs: involvement in the world, emotional regulation, relief from boredom, social recognition and connection, and curiosity to learn even more about writing! As students improve in writing, they begin to value it more, creating a cycle of motivation and success. This journey requires repeated, positive experiences. Nurturing students’ writerly confidence takes time and a commitment to fostering a writerly culture within the school.
- Learn more here -[Getting Children Up & Running As Writers In the EYFS-KS1]