Write Like A Mother: Benefits

Last Write Like A Mother post, we talked about the challenges of writing with kids. And while there are plenty, there are also so many benefits! While I loved all of the answers to all of the questions, the answers to this question were particularly great.

What are some of the unexpected benefits of writing with children?

So many. That they are proud of me. That they see me as an example of working hard at something you love. Learning to work through distraction and interruption. My creative process is not some fragile flower that will wilt in the first cold breeze. More like a draft horse that will stand there, wait, and then shake its shaggy head and get going again when I’m done defusing whatever crisis has dropped in my lap. Now that they are teenagers, they are absolutely hilarious, and give me insight into writing younger characters. And just being a mom, I feel like I have life experience that brings depth to my work and my understanding of the way motherhood/parenthood influences my characters, whether or not they are mothers/parents.

Sara Read (Twitter: @sarareadauthor)

We write together. My LO loves to write and create, so we work together on projects. He supports me. And I think my influence on him as a writer makes him a better reader and more aware of literature.

Twitter: @julietwildeside

It’s definitely made my writing time more focused. I know that I have very little time to write, so I can’t waste any of it when the time comes. Also, there is such an awesome community of mom writers that I’ve gotten to know who have been amazing support people in my writing universe.

Megan Clancy (Twitter: @mclancyauthor)

For me, my son has allowed me to tap into deeper emotions. That’s been beneficial for writing. I’ve also been doing some relearning alongside him. I give him pep talks and search for teachable moments. It rubs off!

Casey Kincade (Twitter: @noir_kincade)

They can be great little motivational speakers at times. They believe in me when I don’t have the energy to believe in myself.

Ellis Goodwyn (Twitter: @goodwynpub)

Joy. Knowing emotions on a deeper level than I ever felt them prior to being a mom. There’s also a feeling that my words and stories will live on for her when I’m gone. If I ever get published, maybe there will come a day when I’m not around, when she will crack open my book and read it and feel like she’s got me there with her, telling her a story.

Jess A Guest (Twitter: @JessA_Writer)

They are great cheerleaders and catch funny mistakes that I don’t hear even when I read it out loud repeatedly. I’m showing my kids that my dreams are important and it’s good to set boundaries so I can pursue my dreams

Angie (Twitter: @AMaesAuthor)

Understanding a different age group. Emotional capacity increased. Time management.

Twitter: Datathinker

From inspiration to personal cheerleaders to prioritizing time, there are so many benefits when it comes to writing with kids.

For more from the Write like a Mother series, check out routines and challenges.