the written word

Communication through the written word has had an amazing comeback and it doesn't get nearly enough attention. Both of my kids, in particular Eliza my 10 year old, can't get enough of writing primarily through email, ichatting, texting or even a good old fashion note. 

The weekend before Thanksgiving Eliza went to Washington DC with my mother for a sightseeing tour. Eliza was a little anxious so we gave her a cell phone just for the weekend. We told her she could call or text us any time she was feeling a little nervous. She called a couple times mostly to say good night but texted continually. 

"Gma Judy and I r about to go to the portrait gallery. Love u. See u tomorrow"

"We r about to go see a movie"

"We just got out of the movie. We went to see a christmas carol. Lets say it wasn't the best movie I've ever seen. It was kinda creepy."

There were also emails telling me about her day accompanied with embedded pictures. I'll probably get someone commenting on the use of "u" and "r" and other short form typing techniques. I know It's not proper grammar. Does anyone speak the Queens English anymore? Every generation develops their own linguistics. The point I'm making is the next generation is not only seamlessly forced to express themselves in writing but it's actually their preferred method of communication. I find it encouraging. 

As a kid growing up I didn't write half as much as either of my children do. My sister Joanne wrote two blog postings about shopping and cooking with my 7 year old, Ruby. When my wife showed Ruby the posting in the morning, she asked if she could comment. She wanted to communicate and join the conversation. She loved reading the comments back on her comment. She even asked if she could start her own blog. I told her it was too much effort and only gets you into trouble. 

Technology needs to be monitored without question. The internet can be a scary and confusing place for kids without adult supervision. However, technology has brought back the lost art form of the written word albeit shorter and across new platforms. Most of the kids I interact with have little fear of writing or self expression. How can that be a bad thing?