Reading, Writing, and Kids

From the time I was five I loved to read. I found adventure, fantasy, and pure delight within the pages of the books that lined my shelves. I owe my deep love of reading–which later spurred my compulsion for writing–to my mother.

Back then, computers were not as mainstream as they are today. In fact, the interactive reading games I played in elementary school on the Commodore 64 were the ultimate in simplicity, yet at the time I was astounded.

Today we are plugged in, wired to, and virtually set in worlds that separate us from reality. But what about our children? Are they also following the path of least resistance?

We know that computers are here to stay but, if we permit our kids to spend hours in front of them, let’s make sure their minds soak in material which will entertain and educate. Below are four websites geared to unleashing the creative outlet that rests within a child’s mind.

1. Scholastic

Activities geared to students from Pre-School to Grade 12, this site encourages the child to take an active role with their learning. From learning the basics in word usage and language to creating your own myth, the site uses audio and video tools to connect with its young audience.

2. Storyline Online

Sponsored by the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, children are read to by a host of famous actors. Hear and watch James Earl Jones, read To Be A Drum by Evelyn Coleman. Hector Elizondo, Jason Alexander, Elijah Wood, and Melissa Gilbert are just a few of the narrators on this delightful site.

3. Poetry for Kids

One of the easiest ways to entice a child to write or read is through poetry. Children’s Author/Poet, Kenn Nesbitt, has created a whimsical website dedicated to endearing poetry to kids. Games, Poetry Lessons, and even a Rhyming Dictionary are brilliant tools to urge children to create their own poetry.

4. Stone Soup

Do you remember the feeling the first time you saw your words in print? Imagine being eight years old and knowing that thousands of people will have the opportunity to read your work.  Stories, Poems, Novellas and Book Reviews — Stone Soup Magazine publishes the creative work of children aged 8-13.