Writing can be a challenging subject to teach, especially when young students feel stuck or unmotivated! Trust me, I have been there. It can be so discouraging for everyone. However, with a few creative strategies, you can turn this skill into an activity your students look forward to! 

If you’re looking for ways to make writing fun for kids in school or writing activities for kids that are simple and easy to do in the classroom, you’re in the right place. Here are five simple ways to make writing fun in your elementary classroom! 

1. Incorporate Writing Prompts with a Twist

Sometimes, all students need is a little spark of inspiration! Fun and imaginative writing prompts can transform writing into an exciting adventure. Try prompts like:

• “If I could shrink to the size of an ant, I would…”
• “Imagine you are a snowflake. What is your journey like?”
  You can also align prompts with seasonal or holiday themes to keep things fresh and engaging. Students love the chance to use their creativity and write about topics they find exciting.

Need some help? Check out this year-long writing prompt bundle with prompts for every day of the year! 

2. Use Creative Writing Tools

Writing doesn’t have to be limited to paper and pencil! Tools like story dice, word jars, or picture prompts are excellent for getting the ideas flowing. For example, roll the dice to determine characters, settings, or conflicts for their stories. Picture prompts can also inspire descriptive writing and spark discussions before students begin. These tools help remove the intimidation factor and turn writing into an interactive experience.

Need some help? Check out this Writing Would You Rather activity to inspire students to write about their opinions in a fun way! 

3. Turn It into a Game

Bring play into the writing process by turning it into a game. Here are a few ideas:

• Writing relay: Students work in teams, adding sentences to a shared story.
• Spin-the-wheel storytelling: Use a wheel to select random story elements like characters, settings, and problems.
• Pass-the-paper stories: Students start a story, then pass it to a peer to continue.
  These activities not only encourage collaboration but also make writing feel more dynamic and fun.

Need some help? Check out this fun sentence-building activity!

4. Incorporate Technology

Embrace the tools of the digital age to make writing more engaging! Apps and websites that allow students to type, illustrate, and even animate their stories bring their ideas to life in a new way. Programs like Book Creator or Google Slides can be used to create digital storybooks. Adding a tech element can especially appeal to students who love using tablets or computers. 

Need some help? Check out this writing escape room activity! 

5. Celebrate Their Work

Nothing motivates our young writers more than knowing their work will be appreciated! Create opportunities to celebrate their work, like:

• Hosting a “writer’s gallery” where students can display their stories.
• Compiling their work into a class “book” to send home or keep in the classroom library.
• Letting them read their stories aloud to their peers.
  

Need some help? Have your students write something and then celebrate by displaying it on your bulletin board with this set! 

I hope your students love these activities! With a little creativity in your lessons,  it’s amazing how much engagement you can get from your students. What are your favorite activities that get your students excited to write? Let me know in the comments! 

Looking for more? Check out my post here!