The written word is one of the most ancient of arts. It conveyed the words of Cleopatra to Cesar Augustus, sunk a thousand ships, and brought about an end to innumerable wars. When used correctly, the written word can be beautiful; when incorrectly, dangerous and provocative. To help your child toward becoming a writer is the hallmark of a brilliant parent, as with any of the arts. Too often in our current age do we see children disinterested in reading, obsessed with the lives of social media personalities and musicians; blind to the beauty that lies right before their eyes. While the written word is probably never going to die out, it does appear to be becoming partially obsolete; replaced by code and computer programs, television, and music. If you cultivate a writer, you will be doing the world a huge favor, we’re running out.