10 Hands-On Activities to Support Informative Writing at Home

What is informative writing?

Informative writing is a type of writing that provides facts, explanations, or instructions about a specific topic. Its purpose is to educate or inform the reader without expressing personal opinions. This type of writing is structured clearly, often using headings, lists, or step-by-step instructions to organize information. Examples of informative writing include reports, how-to guides, fact-based essays, and nonfiction articles. Writers use precise language and details to ensure the reader understands the topic. Informative writing helps students develop research skills and the ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively.

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Informative writing helps children learn how to share facts, explain ideas, and teach others. Parents can encourage their child’s informational writing skills with fun, interactive activities. Here are 10 hands-on activities to help primary-grade children practice informative writing at home.

1. Create an “All About” Book

Have your child choose a topic they love (like animals, sports, or space) and write a mini-book with facts, illustrations, and a cover page.

2. Recipe Writing

Encourage your child to write down the steps for making their favorite snack or meal. They can include ingredients, instructions, and pictures.

3. How-To Guides

Ask your child to explain how to do something they’re good at, like tying shoes, brushing teeth, or making a paper airplane. Have them write step-by-step instructions.

4. Fact Scavenger Hunt

Choose a topic and go on a fact-finding mission using books or the internet. Have your child write a short report using the information they discover.

5. Labeling the House

Help your child create labels for common household items, then write a short description of each object and what it does.

6. Nature Journal

Take a walk outside and encourage your child to write about what they see, hear, and discover. They can include facts about plants, animals, and weather.

7. Interview a Family Member

Have your child ask a relative about their job, hobbies, or childhood experiences. Then, they can write a short informative piece about what they learned.

8. Write a Newspaper Article

Encourage your child to write a news report about a recent event in their life, like a birthday party, school project, or family trip.

9. Compare and Contrast Writing

Pick two related topics (e.g., cats vs. dogs, summer vs. winter) and have your child write about their similarities and differences.

10. Science Experiment Report

Do a simple science experiment together and have your child write about the materials used, the steps taken, and the results.

Make Informative Writing Fun and Engaging!

These activities make writing educational and enjoyable while strengthening your child’s ability to share knowledge clearly. Try them out and watch your child’s confidence in informative writing grow!