114. A Developmental Approach to Teaching Writing with Melissa from Teaching to Transform

Let’s talk about the real kind of kindergarten writing, where every student is on their own unique journey.

In this episode, I’m joined by literacy consultant and podcast host Melissa Morrison (of Getting Students to Write) to unpack what it looks like to teach writing in a developmentally appropriate way. We talk about why some students are still scribbling while others are crafting full stories and how to meet all of them where they are.

Plus, Melissa shares how teachers can slowly shift their practice to better support young writers, even if your current curriculum doesn’t match developmentally appropriate expectations.

Whether you're new to kindergarten or just want to make writing more manageable, this episode will help you see your students (and yourself!) in a whole new light.

In this episode I share:

• What “writing” really means in kindergarten (hint: it’s not all about sentences)
• Why oral language is the foundation of early writing
• How to support kids at every stage - from scribbles to sentences
• The role of labeling, drawing, and invented spelling in writing development
• How to make writing time more engaging and meaningful (without ditching your curriculum)

Resources:

• Language Composition Framework
• Matt Glover and Kathy Collins

Connect with Melissa:

• LinkedIn - @melissa-morrison
• Website - teaching-to-transform.com
• Podcast - Getting Students to Write 

Connect with Zeba:

• Instagram - @kindergartencafe
• Facebook - @kindergartencafe
• Website - www.kindergartencafe.org
• Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe

Mentioned in this episode:

Caring Critters Books

Felipe the Feeling Frog: https://www.kindergartencafe.org/felipe/ Trixie the Thoughtful Turtle: https://www.kindergartencafe.org/trixie/