by Sharon Housley Flush out the writer in children. Blogging could draw out a young writer and open doors to their future. Consider encouraging your child to start blogging! Children love having an audience. The instant recognition and approval that comes from a crowd just can't be beat. Employing blogs to help develop good spelling habits, grammar skills, and develop a love for writing at a young age is an innovative concept that has potential benefits: Benefits 1.) Responsibility/Commitment - Daily Posts Regular updates require children to be disciplined and responsible. 2.) Communication - Increased Communication with Friends and Relatives Blogging or journaling gives children the opportunity to connect with relatives who might live some distance away, communicating important timely issues. 3.) Technology - Exposure to Internet Technologies Children are growing into technology-laden world. Exposure to innovative Internet technology will help them with communication skills and résumé-building. 4.) Improved Writing Skills When presented with an audience, children will want to present their "best" work. 5.) Improved Editing Skills Proofreading is an important skill that is difficult to teach. Editing of daily entries will help children learn how to present their ideas clearly and professionally. 6.) Improved Spelling Automated spell-checking helps children be aware of spelling errors when they occur. 7.) Typing Getting children acquainted with keyboards at a young age will help them become familiar with their layout and function, quickly making them proficient typists. Resource for Blogging Information - http://www.blog-connection.com Because blogging involves the Internet, parents and teachers should also take the opportunity to educate youngsters about the dangers of the Internet. The Internet is global in its reach and developing safe Internet habits at a young age is critical. Remind children not to disclose personal information including names, addresses or location of events they plan to attend. Staying Safe Online - http://www.small-business-software.net/staying-safe-online.htm

About the Author: Sharon Housley manages marketing for NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net a company specializing in alphanumeric paging, SMS and wireless messaging software solutions. Other sites by Sharon can be found at http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com , and http://www.monitoring- software.net