Write Now! Keep Your Headphones on and Your Pens Out

Getting your kids to sit down and write isn’t always easy, especially when you’re homeschooling and trying to keep things fresh and engaging. But here’s a secret: when kids connect writing to something they already love, they’re much more motivated to dive in.

And what do most kids love? Music.

Whether it’s Cardi B’s bold new album or Taylor Swift’s storytelling lyrics, songs are full of emotions, imagery, and meaning making them a perfect springboard for writing activities at home.

Here’s how you can turn music into your next homeschool writing lesson:

Step 1: Pick a Song They Actually Enjoy

Instead of forcing a “classic” or something dry, let your child choose. The buy-in is so much stronger when it’s a song they’ve been playing on repeat. Cardi B’s music, whether you like the lyrics or not -they do, is full of humor and bold personality, while Taylor Swift’s songs tell heartfelt stories.  Both give kids lots to work with.

Step 2: Listen and Chat

Play the song together (bonus: it feels more like hanging out than “school”). Then ask:

• What do you think this song is about?

• What emotions do you hear?

• Which lyrics stuck with you and why?

Step 3: Look for Themes and Style

Guide your child to notice:

• Themes (friendship, heartbreak, ambition, joy)

• Word choice (strong verbs, playful rhymes, dramatic descriptions)

• Storytelling (is there a beginning, middle, and end?)

Step 4: Turn It into Writing

Now comes the fun part. Give them options so they feel creative instead of boxed in:

• Write a short story inspired by the song

• Write a letter to the artist about what the song means to them

• Create their own poem, rap, or verse in a similar style

• Write an analysis about what the song means and determine what devices were used

*Bonus, and one of my favorite writing assignments, have them choose 3-5 songs that they find meaningful.  Have them write an essay and in each paragraph explain why that song is so significant to them. 

Step 5: Share and Celebrate

Reading their writing aloud (even just to you) builds confidence. If your family does co-ops or group meetups, these pieces are also fun to share with other homeschoolers.

Pro tip: Rotate artists.  Introduce them to your favorite songs and listen to the ones they pick too!

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Why This Works for Homeschoolers

Many homeschool parents tell me their kids get stuck when it comes to writing. Using music as a prompt makes it less intimidating because kids are already emotionally connected to the content. Instead of starting from scratch, they’re simply responding and that confidence often carries over into other writing assignments.

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A Quick Note About Social Media & Safety

Another trend I’ve noticed: students also love writing about what’s trending online. Viral videos, memes, and Instagram reels often come up in class discussions. These can also be fantastic prompts but it’s just as important to remind kids about internet safety.

Parent Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Online:

• Set boundaries: know which platforms they use and for how long

• Talk often: ask what videos they’re watching and discuss them together

• Emphasize privacy: remind them not to share personal info

• Model safe use: show them your healthy relationship with technology

Blending music, media, and writing not only gets kids to open up on paper but also teaches them to think critically about the world they’re living in.

 

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