Losing the childhood writer in us

Child writing“All children ‘write.’ I suppose the real question is why do so many people give it up.”

Margaret Atwood

How true is this observation? And even better coming from the multi-talented author Margaret Atwood.

For what child doesn’t enjoy writing and storytelling? Yet how many give up that passion as they grow older and develop new interests that take them away from the creativity and discovery of their early years?

Those of us who love to write never gave up that childhood passion, of course, but it’s still fun to see that imagination run wild in young children as they excitedly recount their stories.

And why do so many children give up their passion for writing as they grow older? Is it no longer considered important once ‘real’ life begins? Is it viewed as a mere distraction from work and adult life?

When I watch young teenagers – and far too many adults – surgically connected to their electronic devices at all hours of the day and night, I wonder if there’s any creativity or time for thoughtful reflection left in the modern world. I imagine I should be thankful there is any interest in writing and storytelling today.

Thankfully, writers and readers, you help fuel this creativity. Let’s do our best to keep this childhood love of creativity and writing alive.

4 Comments

  1. ProfeJMarie (Janet Rundquist) on March 25, 2016 at 2:28 pm

    I think some of it gets lost in the urgency of needing to fit everything in school curriculum these days – which means loss of “free write” time. English standards still include creative writing, but that regular free write time isn’t always there (although some teachers still make time for it, of course).

    • kimberlysullivan on March 25, 2016 at 11:38 pm

      Ouch, this would be a true loss. Too much mindless, standardized testing, perhaps? But I think it is important to develop this talent early… glad to see that some teachers continue to make time for creative writing. It’s such an important skill for children.

  2. Emma on March 25, 2016 at 3:29 pm

    My five year old has recently started making up stories she wants to write down which is lovely. I hope she doesn’t lose that but I think you are right that so many do. A shame.

    • kimberlysullivan on March 25, 2016 at 11:43 pm

      How wonderful! I think (hope) we parents have an important role in stimulating this interest. So glad your five-year-old is already a budding author, and I’m sure it’s the start of a long writing career.

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