312. Writing Stations

Julie Bogart and Melissa Wiley return with a heartwarming episode all about writing stations---simple, inviting setups that help kids discover the joy of putting pen to paper. Inspired by Melissa's son Steven, who has turned letter-writing into an art form, the hosts explore how authentic writing can become a beloved ritual rather than a chore. From Steven's letters to UPS and Paula's Choice to the treasure of handwritten notes to grandparents, Julie and Melissa show how writing stations make real-world communication accessible, beautiful, and meaningful. They share easy ways to stock materials---stationery, stamps, pens, and postcards---and ideas for turning everyday writing into connection, gratitude, and delight. This episode celebrates handwriting as an act of love and self-expression, reminding parents that the goal isn't perfect penmanship---it's the human touch of words sent out into the world. Topics discussed include: How one homeschooler's letters sparked joy and community Creating low-stress writing stations at home Letter writing as real-world language arts Why small gestures of gratitude matter The enduring beauty of paper, pens, and stamps Resources: Unfortunately, “Murph” (Melissa’s source for old stamps) is no longer selling online. But don’t miss these Goodnight Moon stamps at USPS! (The new Baby Wild Animal forever stamps are adorable too) Visit our “Tools for the Art of Writing” page in the Brave Writer Book Shop Fall class registration is open! Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!) Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing Brave Learner Home Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA