Kiddo has been very motivated to practice his handwriting skills lately. This mostly takes the form of self-directed learning because he is the kind of kid who loves busy work. (I should get him to fill out all the forms sitting on my desk.)
If you are familiar with Jack and Annie from The Magic Tree House books, you know that Jack loves to take notes.
Taking a cue from one of his favorite heroes, my 5 year old now likes to take notes in his preschool journal. Today’s subject: space! He wrote lists of planets and their moons. As you can see he used his giant space puzzle for inspiration.
I like how this activity is self-directed. I don’t initiate or even encourage these busy work ideas that Kiddo comes up with. Nor do I feel that Kiddo’s engagement with this kind of activity is proof that he is smart. He’s just a quirky kid.
If your child has a particular interest or hobby, why not encourage them to write about it? It can be casual, like taking notes, or even a special, designated hobby book.
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Raising a Happy Child says
Oh, but he IS smart. I can't wait to see how the school will deal with someone like him – I keep hearing dire predictions in homeschooling blogosphere that gifted kids are doomed once they enter a public school. I don't happen to believe it, but it will be interesting to hear some notes from the trenches.
Jessica says
It's interesting you mention Jack & Annie. I've been wondering what is so intriguing about the Magic Treehouse series. EVERYONE loves them and I'm just not sold on the idea.
Honestly, I hate that kind of “fantasy” stuff like Magic School Bus. Sounds bizarre, I know. I'm the one who needlefelts tiny critters and believes in fairies. BUT, I don't like the idea of Benjamin learning about real-life stuff via some weird fantastical “journey” taken by kids in a magic bus or what have you. Does that make sense?
Anyway…when you get a minute…tell me about the Magic Tree House series. Convince me Ben will enjoy them! 🙂