Lists

Here is my middle child's latest list:

This is his wish list, written from bottom to top, in order of importance.  (-Still figuring out that top-to-bottom idea.) He's learning about money, and wishing for a lot of "things" lately, so I suggested that he make a wish list.  When he's saved some money or has a birthday, we can consult the list for ideas.  When he says something like, "Mommy, can I get a set of vampire teeth?"  I can say, "Great idea!  Let's add that to your list."  He may or may not actually ever get the vampire teeth, but writing it down feels like a productive step in the right direction, and when he does get to choose something to buy, he can practice the skills of prioritizing and budgeting. 

My oldest son has a guitar and a football, and has no need for anything more in life, therefore a wish list wouldn't mean much to him.  He does enjoy making lists of upcoming football games and concert set lists. 

List making is a fabulous, real-life writing activity.  Writing lists related to their interests is fun for beginning and experienced writers alike. It's especially appealing because it's easy and quick, and the writer can focus on ideas instead of worrying about conventions like spacing and punctuation. 

I cut lined paper the long way, and keep it handy for kids to grab when they have the itch to make a list.  For my beginning writer, we're using this paper.  The lines are raised, so it helps him feel when to stop to make his letters sit on the lines.

As I mentioned last time, for some of our Family Journal interview topics, we use My Listography: My Amazing Life In Lists, by Lisa Nola.  This book is actually meant to be a journal in list form.  Young writers respond to prompts like these:

List your favorite foods.
List the people you admire.
What would you do with a million dollars?
List scary things.

They're a perfect way to introduce writers to the idea of journaling!

My Listography books are also available for grown ups, plus there's an iPhone app, and a Listography site, where adults can join and share lists online.