Start by encouraging regular writing. Your child could write an opinion, describe an experience, summarise something they have read or create a short story.

When reviewing their work, avoid focusing only on spelling and grammar. Ask about the bigger picture.

For example:

• What is your main idea?

• Who is your audience?

• What are you trying to make the reader think or feel?

• Does each paragraph have a clear purpose?

• Could you explain this idea with an example?

• Is there a stronger word you could use here?

Reading together can also improve writing. Discuss how authors begin stories, introduce arguments, create tension and choose vocabulary.

Another effective strategy is model comparison. Show your child two pieces of writing and discuss why one is clearer or more convincing. This helps students recognise quality rather than simply being told that something is “better”.

Keep feedback manageable. Correcting every error can overwhelm younger writers. Instead, choose one or two priorities for each piece.

For example, this week might focus on paragraph structure. Next week could focus on sentence variety.

The objective is gradual improvement.

Parents can become effective writing coaches by focusing on ideas, structure, clarity, vocabulary and audience, while using teachers or tutors for more detailed assessment against formal marking criteria.