The joy (or pain) of handwriting

For some children, the slightest hint of a story gets them busily writing. Suggest a silly sentence to begin a story (search for 'story starters' on the internet) and they're off! My eldest child thrives on this kind of creativity. For my son, however, this kind of open ended scenario creates an uncomfortable vastness of possibilities that he simply drowns in. Thankfully these days you can find just about anything on the internet! I have discovered a simple search for 'make handwriting worksheet' will find many sites that allow you to make your own. For my son, a few simple sentences from the battles of Alfred the Great (incorporating phrases such as 'fearsome battle-axes' and 'brandishing their swords') has him eager (yes, I said eager) to practice each day. For the moment, anyway! (Ask me again in 6 month's time...) Everyone has their own version of fun, don't they?

For another article on 'The Fun Theory' you can read Laura Grace Weldon's blog.

- Kathy

The Mysterious Benedict Society

Our recommended book of the week is The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart.

This is the story of gifted children and undercover missions! The book is well written, with likable heroes and dastardly villains  A great book to read aloud with the family, or just leave lying around for your children to sneak off with...

Kathy