[Podcast #296] Bad Writing Assignments

Brave Writer Podcast

Do you ever wonder if the writing assignments your child receives are actually supporting their growth—or just making writing feel like a chore?

In this Brave Writer podcast episode, we explore why it’s not only okay but essential to judge and adapt writing assignments for your kids.

We talk about:

  • how rigid or uninspiring tasks can stifle self-expression,
  • why playful and flexible approaches unlock learning,
  • and how you can confidently take charge of your child’s writing journey.

We also share practical tips for adapting assignments and supporting your child’s natural development as a writer.

Show Notes

Why It’s Okay to Judge Writing Assignments

Many parents assume that published writing curricula are above critique. But the truth is, you are the best judge of what works for your child. If an assignment feels pointless, uninspiring, or overly rigid, trust your instincts. We want to give you full permission to step back, assess the purpose of each activity, and decide if it serves your learner. If it doesn’t, you can absolutely adapt, skip, or replace it with something better.

How “Bad” Assignments Get in the Way

Some writing programs treat language as a formula—build a sentence word by word, or force a child to describe a dirt clod or write three perfectly formed sentences. These exercises can sap all the joy out of writing and put unnecessary pressure on kids. When assignments are boring and high-pressure, children are left frustrated or blocked. The truth is, kids already know how to play with language. We don’t need to “dumb it down” or make it overly mechanical. Instead, we can capitalize on their natural ability for playful expression and curiosity.

Embracing Flexibility and Self-Expression

The best writing grows from genuine interest and meaningful conversation. Rather than asking your child to fill in lines on a worksheet or stick to a restrictive outline, give them space to explore their ideas. Use tools like jotting down their spoken words, brainstorming together, or allowing them to choose topics that matter to them. Encourage creativity—even quirky approaches like writing sideways or using colored pens can unlock inspiration. Remember: writing isn’t about ticking off boxes; it’s about communicating ideas in a way that feels alive and authentic.

Support, Not Surveillance

We believe that writing is best taught the way we support language acquisition in toddlers: with patience, modeling, and lots of practice. Give your kids permission to make mistakes, write rough drafts, and revise at their own pace. Be a conversation partner, not just an evaluator. Ask open-ended questions, explore ideas together, and let your kids see you engaging in the messy, creative process of writing yourself.

You Have the Power to Adapt

If your child is assigned an uninspiring topic or a rigid format, you are allowed to make changes. Choose a new subject, bend the rules, or even skip the assignment. Writing instruction should be tailored to your child’s needs, interests, and natural learning style. Above all, prioritize the relationship your child is developing with words, ideas, and their own voice.

Let’s champion a writing life that prioritizes discovery, delight, and genuine communication. When we give ourselves permission to judge (and improve) writing assignments, we set our kids up for a lifetime of confident self-expression.

Resources

Connect with Julie

Connect with Melissa

Produced by NOVA

Brave Writer Podcast

This entry is filed under Podcasts. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Comments are closed.