How Well Does Your Child Write? In 2025, Does it Still Matter?

WIth finals here, and end-of-year evaluations, it's only natural that some parents will be disappointed with their child's less than stellar grades for writing. Writing well takes practice - it is no different than playing an instrument well or learning to drive. Sadly, writing extensively is not what many schools prioritize. Even in the age of ChatGPT, writing well still matters, maybe now more than ever. In a world racing to automate everything, the human voice—clear, thoughtful, authentic—is what cuts through the noise. According to a 2023 Grammarly Business study, 86% of business leaders believe strong writing boosts both productivity and trust. And the College Board reports that 90% of employers consider writing skills essential—yet many say their hires fall short. Writing well isn’t just about grammar; it’s about thinking clearly, communicating with purpose, and standing out in a sea of sameness. AI can assist, but it can’t replace the heart, nuance, or integrity of a well-crafted sentence.

It's what makes the summer the perfect time to strengthen students' writing skills. What's more, the younger our kids are when they launch their writing journey, the easier the techniques stick, and the more innate their writing prowress grows!

1. Find Any Reason to Write

Summer is a great time for students of any age to launch a blog, journal daily, or even write long emails to grandparents. Livi O., age 8, loves writing about her summer travels. Aahil, age 10, leans into sports for inspirtation as does Rohail, age 10. If your child loves reading, conider contributing book reviews to Amazon.com, local libraries, independent book stores like Glen Ellyn’s Just the Book Store, and even suburban newspapers.

2. Write for Competitions

Urge children to compete in contests. Homeschooled student Nawfal, at age 12, had his writing chosen for the Inspired Generosity campaign, from 200 entries nationwide. His work was featured as part of a nation-wide display featuring American-Muslim Generosity.

“Publishing and contests were always something I wanted to do but never came close to making happen," says another parent, Jenifer Bystry, one of the Writers Studio’s very first participants. "Bailey’s writing portfolio would never have had as many pieces in it nor would those pieces be nearly so good were it not for (Writers Studio) workshops. She’s enjoying her writing journey.” That recognition adds much to a student’s self-confidence, not to mention to his or her resume for college. Losing, and learning to handle that, is a life skill, too.

3. Contribute to Websites

Having a real reason to write can make all the difference. Have students submit their writing for publication. Discuss vacation spots on Tripadvisor.com, get started on writing Fan Fiction, review movies on movies.com, respond to news articles with an Op-Ed.

4. The key is consistency.

Set aside at least 30 minutes a week to write and get it done. Writing proficiency not only gives a child a competitive edge in school but opens doors at the university level.

What do all these kids have in common? They've honed their skills at WritersStudio.us, which hosts year-round online writing workshops. Writers Studio conducts workshops for grades 3 to 12 and its latest schedule of classes is now available. Students at Writers Studio, on average, experience a full school year worth of improvement in writing proficiency, and critical thinking, with just 20-25 hours of consistent coaching. Come fall and the new school year, all their regular practice this summer will ensure these writers have a head start!