Is Children's Writing for Pleasure Becoming a Lost Art ?

To those of us who have been working with children for a while, it’s increasingly apparent that writing for pleasure is in decline. According to the latest findings from the National Literacy Trust, only 28.7% of children aged 8 to 18 reported enjoying writing in their free time—a record low since the survey began over a decade ago. In fact, the number of children who write daily outside school has halved in just one year.

This sharp decline raises some important questions: Why is this happening? And, more importantly, what can be done to reverse it?

The Causes Behind the Crisis

The reasons for this trend are complex. One factor is the dominance of technology. While digital platforms offer children endless ways to communicate, many involve short, snappy interactions rather than thoughtful, sustained writing. The skills required for writing a story, journal, or even a letter are being overshadowed by the speed of texts and emojis.

Additionally, children are busier than ever, juggling schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. With such packed schedules, sitting down to write for pleasure can seem like an indulgence they simply don’t have time for.

Another issue may lie in children’s confidence as writers. The report revealed that nearly half of children struggle to decide what to write. For some, the blank page can feel daunting without the support they might receive in a structured school setting.

Why Writing Matters

It’s tempting to dismiss writing for pleasure as a quaint pastime. However, research consistently shows that children who enjoy writing achieve more, not just in literacy but across all areas of learning. Writing also supports mental wellbeing, offering an outlet for self-expression and creativity.

Encouragingly, many children do recognise these benefits. A significant proportion said they write to express their ideas, relax, or make sense of their thoughts and feelings. This highlights a potential opportunity: if children are given the right tools and inspiration, they may rediscover the joy of writing.

How We Can Help

Reigniting children’s enthusiasm for writing starts with making it accessible and engaging. Schools and parents play a vital role here. Whether it’s through storytelling workshops, writing competitions, or simply providing children with a quiet space and a notebook, small changes can make a big difference.

Another powerful strategy is to embrace the creativity and individuality of young writers. Children are most engaged when they write about topics they care about, free from the constraints of formal assessments or rigid guidelines. A playful approach to writing, combined with positive feedback, can transform the process from a chore into a source of pride and enjoyment.

As a parent, educator, or mentor, you have the chance to influence how children view writing. By fostering a supportive environment, you can help them build confidence and discover the power of their own voice.

Writing is more than a skill; it’s a gateway to self-expression, creativity, and connection. Together, we can ensure it doesn’t become a lost art.

Five Top Tips for Parents to Inspire a Love of Writing

1. Create a Writing-Friendly Space Set up a comfortable, well-lit area with plenty of writing materials—pens, pencils, notebooks, and even colourful paper or stickers to make it inviting.

   
   

2. Encourage Daily Journaling

   Suggest a journal where your child can write about their day, their feelings, or anything that interests them. Let them know there’s no right or wrong way to do it—it’s their personal space.

   
   

3. Make Writing Fun

   Turn writing into a game! Create silly story prompts, write letters to family members, or challenge your child to describe their favourite character in just 100 words

   
   

4. Model a Love of Writing Let your child see you writing, whether it’s a journal entry, a letter, or a creative piece. Share what you enjoy about it and invite them to join you.

   
   

5. Celebrate Their Efforts Usually, children cannot be praised enough! Praise their writing and focus on their ideas rather than spelling or grammar. Display their stories or let them share their work with family members to build confidence and pride.

   
   

If you’d like more ideas or resources to nurture your child’s love of writing, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Reference: https://literacytrust.org.uk/research-services/research-reports/children-and-young-peoples-writing-in-2024/