1. Make them write once they are able to so they will not hate it or try to get out of it later. (Well, they may still hate it, but it won’t be negotiable, and they will accept it as something that must be done.) Make them hold the pencil correctly and form the letters correctly (i.e. not bottom to top on letters that should be started at the top). Bad habits are hard, if not impossible, to break. Ask me how I know.
2. Once they are able, copy, copy, copy. Copy words, pictures, sentences, paragraphs (later). It is great for teaching them to pay attention to detail, as well as helping to learn spelling, punctuation, etc.
3. Memorize things. Scripture verses, songs, poems. Again, it isn’t just for the sake of the academics or the content. It develops skills they will use all their lives. It is good “brain exercise.” And just as with copying things, it sharpens their attention to details.
4. When they are young, teach them skills. Do not worry about creativity. They can be creative when they play. If they like coloring books, teach them to color in the lines and use appropriate colors (no green people, purple dogs, etc.) There is more than just coloring going on. There is neatness, following rules, carefulness, etc. (Humanists would say let them do as they wish and don’t stifle their “creativity.” We are Christians though, and recognize that even these small things can be a type of rebelling against what is accepted.)
5. Do not expect them to write creatively unless they want to. Copying is best early on. Also, avoid allowing them to spell things just any which way. Always correct spelling (except perhaps on cards they make for you). Once you get a wrong spelling in your head, it is stuck there and nearly impossible to get it out. Thus the reason copying is a much better option for young ones.
6. Remember that not all school work is for the sake of academics. You are building character, endurance, perseverance, etc. You want them to be diligent and hard working. Not lazy and careless.
7. Read, read, read. Of first importance is Scripture, of course. Don’t worry about whether they understand it when they are little. Just read it every day. It will become a part of them. For understanding, read a good Bible story book, like the one by Vos. Also read beautiful picture books with them. Not grocery store twaddle, or cartoon or movie based books, but really good ones that have stood the test of time. Familiarize yourself with some great book lists. And don’t neglect to read books that are above their reading level: chapter books, like the Little House series, Charlotte’s Web, Treasure Island, etc. They will be absorbing the vocabulary and flow of the words. Don’t worry about stopping constantly to explain. Just read. Allow them to play with blocks, color, or some other quiet activity while you read. Many people (adults included) listen better if they are doing something mindless with their hands. After reading, ask them to tell back some of what you read. What did they like best? What do they think is going to happen next? Discuss character issues if appropriate.
8. Keep lessons and reading times short when they are young (unless they request more). It is far better to do many different things with complete attention (short lessons) than to stick with one thing until they are bored and you have lost their attention. Many little ones, especially boys it seems, do well with breaks for lots of physical activity throughout the day in between lessons. Let them get up and run around for 10 minutes every so often. Set a timer so they become used to and accepting of the time limit. Take advantage of the break by throwing in a load of laundry or some other chore you can do in that time period.
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