How To Plan for 11 Plus Creative Writing Success

Introduction

In today’s blog we’re about to embark on a journey of brilliance – one that involves unleashing your child’s creative genius in their  11 Plus Creative Writing. Yes, it is possible, and no, it doesn’t happen by magic, so you need a way forward. 

It’s not just about acing an exam; it’s about fostering a love for words, imagination, and the joy of self-expression. So, grab a cup of coffee or a green tea, and let’s look at the steps that you need to take for your child’s unique transformational journey to 11 Plus Creative Writing success.

Step 1: Embrace the Adventure

Before we even set foot on this creative odyssey, take a deep breath and remind yourself that this is an adventure. Avoid getting carried away by the external pressure of exams or societal expectations; it’s about your child’s growth and exploration that truly matters here. Yes, you have an ambitious goal but it is a good idea to keep things in perspective. Approaching it with an open mindset and a sense of excitement will undoubtedly help keep your child relaxed when they are studying. 

Step 2: Create a Cosy Reading Space

The foundation of exceptional writing is of course reading. Create a cosy reading nook at home filled with a diverse collection of books, from children’s class to silly, humorous books and everything in-between. Encourage your child to explore different genres, authors, and writing styles. The more they read, the more they will develop their own reading taste and absorb the nuances of language and ideas for their story writing. 

Step 3: Encourage Imagination

Children are natural storytellers. Foster their imagination by indulging in creative play, creative activities and games. Embrace the fantastical worlds they create with enthusiasm. Set aside regular times in the week for chilled downtime – this gives busy brains a break and time to recharge. This not only ignites their creativity but also provides a rich reservoir of ideas for future writing endeavours.

Step 4: Make Writing a Daily Ritual

Consistency is absolutely key. Set aside a specific time each week after school for your child to engage in writing exercises. It doesn’t always have to be a formal piece of writing; it could even be a journal entry. The goal is to make writing a habit, something as natural as brushing teeth. 

Step 5: Explore Various Writing Prompts

To keep things interesting, introduce a variety of writing prompts. These can be found online, in writing guides, or even inspired by everyday life. The prompts should be diverse, encouraging your child to experiment with different genres and styles. From time travel adventures to personal reflections, each prompt is a doorway to a new storytelling adventure. If you are on the hunt for some websites with some great free picture prompts then check out my 11-Plus Story Planning Blog for the best recommendations. 

Step 6: Foster a Fearless Editing Mindset

Teach your child that writing is rewriting. The first draft is just the beginning, not the end. Help them understand that editing is a crucial part of the creative process. Show them how to revise and refine their work, emphasising that it’s okay to make mistakes – that’s where the real learning happens. Don’t give up if at first your child is reluctant to see any value in editing their work, it’s normal for this to take time. 

Step 7: Create a Supportive Writing Space

Craft a writing environment that stimulates creativity. It doesn’t have to be large and it could be a quiet corner of your kitchen or another shared family space. You could even encourage your child to personalise it with inspiring quotes, colourful stationery, and perhaps a potted plant or two. The goal is to make the writing space feel comfortable, so your child will feel the free flow of their ideas, even after a busy day at school.

Step 8: Join a Writing Group

Writing doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavour. Join online or local writing communities where your child can share their work, receive feedback, and connect with other young writers. This not only boosts their confidence but also exposes them to different perspectives and styles. Check out Bright to Brilliant, my new 12-week Creative Writing programme. 

Step 9: Emphasise Quality Over Quantity

In the pursuit of creativity and especially for 11 Plus preparation,  it’s essential to focus on quality rather than quantity. Encourage your child to have a go at expressing their ideas, paying attention to detail, language, and structure as their confidence grows. Remind them that they are the power behind their pen – their own ideas are amazing and unique to them. 

Step 10: Celebrate the wins – big and small

Every step forward, no matter how small, deserves celebration. Whether it’s completing a challenging writing prompt, receiving positive feedback, or simply finishing a story, acknowledge and celebrate these milestones. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in nurturing a love for writing. 

Summary

In conclusion, guiding your child on their 11 Plus Creative Writing journey is about creating an environment that fosters creativity, imagination, and a genuine love for the written word. Remember, this isn’t just about preparing for an exam; it’s about instilling a lifelong passion for storytelling and self-expression. So, go ahead – embrace the adventure, nurture their creativity and feel proud as your child’s unique transformational journey unfolds before your eyes.

Happy writing! 

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