Research from the past decade shows that children become stronger readers when they also write regularly—and vice versa. Reading and writing rely on the same underlying skills: recognizing sounds in words, connecting letters to sounds, understanding words, and expressing ideas. Supporting both at home helps build confidence and long-term literacy success.
Key Concepts for Families
Reading and Writing Grow Together
- When children practice writing letters and words, they become better at reading them.
- Talking, drawing, reading, and writing all build language and literacy.
Handwriting Matters
- Clear, fluent handwriting helps children express ideas and supports spelling.
- Children need repeated, supportive practice—not perfection.
Spelling as a Learning Tool
- Invented spelling (“frn” for friend) is a normal stage—it shows children are applying sound–letter knowledge.
- Spelling patterns learned in school help children both read and write new words.
What Works at Home
Everyday Practices
- Read with your child daily and talk about what you read.
- Encourage your child to write: lists, labels, notes, stories, and drawings with words.
- Practice letters and sounds through short, fun activities.
- Praise effort and progress, not perfect spelling or handwriting.
Simple Writing Routines
- Have your child write a sentence about a book you read together.
- Keep a small notebook for weekly writing or drawing.
- Encourage sounding out words rather than memorizing.
Strengthening Language
- Talk about new words in books and in daily life.
- Ask your child to describe their drawings, then help them write a word or sentence about it.
Support for Different Learners
For Multilingual Learners
- Celebrate and use both languages—talking and reading in any language helps literacy grow.
- Connect English words to similar words in the home language.
For Children With Difficulties in Writing or Reading
- Offer extra time and encouragement.
- Practice letters, sounds, and simple words in short bursts.
- Work with the teacher to understand what support is happening at school.
Home Applications
Reading–Writing Activities
- Write shopping lists together.
- After a read-aloud, ask your child to write one thing they learned.
- Play games involving letters, sounds, and word building.
Positive Literacy Environment
- Keep paper, markers, and books available.
- Display your child’s writing to show it matters.
Key Recommendations
- Support both reading and writing every day—they build on each other.
- Focus on practice and encouragement, not perfection.
- Talk, read, and write together to build vocabulary, confidence, and joy.
- Celebrate your child’s progress and stay in communication with teachers.
