Social Learning Centre

Creative journals can be picture or writing journals where children freely express focused ideas.

HOW DO WE DO THEM AT THE SOCIAL LEARNING CENTRE?

Children are provided with an idea: An interesting picture, a short news article, a funny story, a series of jokes, a movie clip, or a collection of objects.

They are given 5-10 minutes to write about whatever comes to mind, based upon the idea provided.

Children can write about anything related to the idea. They can describe what was given to them, or how the idea made them feel. They can jot down a memory, a plan, or something else interesting in relation to what has been provided.

If a child finishes quickly, they can draw a picture in relation to what they have written, or write about the picture they have drawn.

WRITE OUT LOUD

The child's writing journey begins
with the ability to print... ...and never ends.

WHY WRITE?

Writing is practical, school related, and social. It helps children express ideas through a universal medium. Children need to be comfortable with writing. Like reading, writing throws open the doors to the world.

Good writing requires practice, and practice can come in many forms: To-do lists, car trip notes, song lyrics, toy and game inventories, etc. Children also need sufficient time to write. They need time to gather ideas, arrange those ideas in their mind, and write everything down in a meaningful format.

WRITING AT HOME:

KEEP WRITING GOING, BUT NEVER GONE!

Suggest that your child take notes - such as car trip notes, sports event notes, or field trip notes.

Encourage journal writing. Before bed is a great time to take out an underpillow journal and write a few thoughts - even if it is things to remember for the next day.

Enjoy reading together. Let children see you write. Writing together encourages positive modelling.

Make lists: Toys, games, books, cards, to-do, groceries, places to go, or fun ideas.

Copy: Song lyrics, game rules, favourite poems, interesting quotes, or the backs of collector cards.