Using words to express emotions is one of the most important factors in creative writing. Teens and kids should be encouraged to use words to express emotions and ideas fully in their writing.
What is too much self-expression?
Parents can look to teen blog sites for guidelines. The best sites have a clear set of rules for bloggers to follow. Profanity, sexual content, and bullying are not tolerated and are unacceptable words to express emotions. Kids who write in this manner are given a warning and then banned from the site.
If you are concerned about your teen writer following appropriate guidelines, find a blogging site that mirrors your compass and direct your teen there. You may have to use some sort of reverse psychology to accomplish this, but it can be done. Talk to your child about what is acceptable in the world of online writing.
Best ways to help kids write
Kids may need some ideas for writing a short story or poetry. Teachers sometimes place different objects on a table and allow students to choose one that reminds them or a trip or experience. Show children different photos and ask them to choose the one that cases the strongest reaction. They can write then write a story using words to express emotions.
Even a trip outside to the park or playground can be used for inspiration. Ask the kids to write down something that involves the five senses while they are outside. The students can choose anything that causes them to pause and think. These thoughts and feelings can be translated into a poem or story with appropriate words to express emotions.
When children are writing online at home, parents should always be involved. Maintain an open and nonjudgmental stance in regard to your child’s writing. You want your young writer to feel able to share with you, and in this way you can be sure they are writing appropriately.
The basic blogging rules should be applied for kids’ writing anywhere online. No personal information should be shared, including social network listings or messenger information. Foul language is not tolerated; violence and sexual material should not be posted either. Teens and kids should remember these rules so that their work can remain in cyberspace and they can retain their online privileges.
Choose words carefully
Freedom of thought should be encouraged, but parents owe it to their kids to set rules about correct words to express emotions. The consequences of a violent or illicit post can be far-reaching. Schools can expel students who post inappropriate or hateful content. These postings can also have legal consequences. Keep communicating with your child and encourage their thoughtful writing.
