Helping Your Homeschooled Kids Overcome Writer’s Block

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By Tricia Goyer

I’ve been writing books for more than two decades, and I’ll let you in on a little secret: even professional writers face writer’s block. Yes, even me! Sometimes the words just don’t come, and the blank page stares back like a challenge I’m not sure I’m ready for.

So when my homeschooled kids groan during writing time, I get it. I’ve been there. But here’s what I’ve learned—writer’s block isn’t the end of the story. It’s simply a pause, an invitation to help creativity find a way through.

Let me share some ways I’ve encouraged my kids (and myself!) when we’re stuck. Head over here for a free printable you can use in your homeschool!

Recognize the Real Problem

Writer’s block isn’t laziness. It’s often fear or overwhelm. Our kids might be afraid of “getting it wrong.” I remind mine that the goal isn’t perfection. It’s just starting. I’ll often say: “You don’t have to write well right now. You just have to write something.”

The cure for writer’s block isn’t brilliance, it’s bravery to write the first word.

Keep It Playful

When my kids freeze, I turn writing into a game:

• “Make up five silly pizza toppings.”
  
• “Pretend your backpack came to life. What does it say?”
  
• “Write down the grossest ice cream flavor you can think of.”
  

Laughter loosens up the pressure, and suddenly, words begin to flow.

Talk First, Write Later

Sometimes my kids don’t know how to write the words, but they can say them. I’ll have them tell me their story, and I either jot it down or record it. Later, they copy it in their own handwriting. This takes away the pressure and lets creativity shine.

Create a Cozy Writing Space

A warm blanket, a lit candle, and maybe even some soft music—these little things make writing feel less like a chore and more like an invitation. I’ve seen how changing the atmosphere helps my kids relax and open up.

Model the Messy Process

I let my kids see my scratched-out sentences and rewrites. Writing is supposed to be messy at first! When they see me make mistakes, it frees them to try. Our mantra: “Messy first, polish later.”

Progress, not perfection, is the secret ingredient to every great story.

Celebrate Every Step

When one of my kids writes even a few sentences after struggling, I make sure to celebrate! A sticker, a hug, or a simple “I’m proud of you for not giving up” goes a long way.

Remember the Bigger Picture

Writing at home isn’t about perfect essays—it’s about building confidence, sparking imagination, and giving kids tools to express their hearts. Every time we face writer’s block together, I remind them—and myself—that we’re growing something far bigger than words on a page.

Mom to mom: writer’s block is normal. But together, with a little patience and creativity, you and your child can move past it. The blank page isn’t something to fear. It’s simply waiting for a story that only your child can tell.

Additional Resources

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