WriterCoach Connection Tips for Parents

Our coaches who are parents have found these tips helpful for coaching their own children:

Tip # 1——Play the role of a coach and ignore the impulse to correct. Always begin by asking your child, “How can I help you?”

•  Reason: You need to establish a solid reader/writer relationship. This is not built on “correcting,” but on listening and helping your child figure out his or her response to the writing assignment.

Tip # 2——Listen to your child read the piece of writing without interrupting.

•  Reason: Interruptions disrupt the thinking process, and writing is a thinking process requiring concentration. That’s why it’s difficult. Showing that you are there to listen establishes you as a coach in this process.

Tip # 3——Find three strengths in your child’s writing and point them out.

•  Reason: This establishes your credibility as a reader, not a critic. Identifying strengths teaches students that writing is a process employing specific, learnable skills. Here are examples of strengths and what they teach: “You clearly stated your main idea in the introduction—that’s important for me as a reader. I want to understand the point you're making in this paper.” (Students learn that writers have a relationship with their readers, and they have to think about the who, what, when, why and how.)

  “You supported your point with vivid details—I can really see the person (scene, event) you’re describing. You made me interested in knowing more.” (Students learn that concrete details and examples are effective.)

Tip # 4——If something is unclear ask for more information.

•   Reason: Unclear writing is a sign of muddled thinking. You can help by asking questions. Do not criticize or give the answer, rather model critical thinking by helping children find their own answers.

Tip # 5——Do not correct grammar or mechanics on a rough draft.

•  Reason: Rough draft errors may be omitted with revision. On a final draft encourage children to edit their own work. Resist the temptation to make the paper “perfect” from your point of view.

Tip # 6——Respect your child as a writer.

•  Reason: What and how to revise is your child’s choice, not yours. You may offer a suggestion, but your child must learn to do the thinking and writing.