TULUNGAGUNG – Literacy mentor Tasya Maghfirotul Wahidah is using a personal approach to encourage children to write at a time when digital trends continue to weaken reading and writing habits among young people.
The educator from Bendiljati Wetan Village in Sumbergempol District, Tulungagung, has dedicated herself to guiding elementary and junior high school students through creative writing and self-expression. Rather than focusing only on grammar or story structure, she believes writing helps children understand themselves and express emotions honestly.
“Teaching writing is not only about grammar or arranging a story plot. Writing helps children recognize themselves and become honest about their own feelings,” Tasya said.
She often discovers students’ hidden potential through simple classroom assignments. When students create short stories, Tasya quietly observes those with strong imagination, emotional sensitivity, and a natural ability to choose words.
Instead of placing talented students into special classes immediately, she prefers a more personal approach. Through casual conversations outside the classroom, Tasya learns about the children’s experiences, interests, and concerns before offering deeper writing guidance.
“It all depends on the students themselves. If they are interested in learning to write stories, I will guide them more intensively,” she explained.
Tasya believes no single teaching method works for every child. Each student has a different personality, ability, and motivation, so she adjusts her mentoring style to suit individual needs.
To help students start writing, she encourages them to draw inspiration from everyday life. Stories about family, friendships, neighbors, and personal experiences often become the foundation for developing characters and storylines.
“Inspiration can come from the environment around us or even from understanding ourselves first. That is where their writing identity naturally appears,” she added.
Tasya also reminds students that writing does not need to be completed in one sitting. She understands creativity often depends on mood and emotional comfort.
When students experience writer’s block, she avoids pressure and instead becomes a listener and discussion partner. She also encourages students to find inspiration from books, films, and even their favorite cartoons.
That pressure-free approach has helped many students write more honestly and confidently. During competitions, Tasya reminds them that contests are not only about winning, but also about learning and enjoying the process of growth.
“For me, mentoring is not about making their writing sound like mine. It is about helping them discover their own signature style. Good writing is honest writing that has soul,” she said.