Tip #170 from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents: Pen Pals

Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly.

#170

Pen Pals (Letter Writing)

“The proper definition of a man is an animal that writes letters.”
―Lewis Carroll

A terrific way to practice writing for real and meaningful reasons is to have a pen pal or someone with whom your child can write and receive letters or e-mails in return. Perhaps you know of a friend of hers that has moved away, a cousin in another state, a grandparent who may enjoy a correspondence. Anyone willing will do.

A person out of state works well because you can encourage your child to ask questions about the life and land where her pen pal is and she can compare and contrast it to where she lives. Regardless, help her to think of a variety of questions to write each time so that the recipient will automatically have a lot to write by answering her questions. Help her learn to set up a letter (greeting, body, ending) and address the envelope properly if she’s mailing it. Collect and send postcards back and forth as an exciting change once in a while. They could send pictures to each other. The possibilities are endless!

If you are having a hard time thinking of someone to write to, ask around at work, family gatherings, and dance lessons. Chances are someone will have the perfect candidate for your child to write to. Try asking your librarian for help. Your child’s teacher may also have suggestions for finding the perfect pen pal. If you’re still running into dead ends, try writing to her yourself! You can both still address envelopes (no need for stamps!) and stuff letters in your mailbox (or underneath each other’s pillows) for each other.

Your child will love receiving letters in the mail from her new pen pal. And chances are, she will learn to love writing a little more, too.

* See our website for an example of a proper letter

Cindy McKinley Alder Patti Trombly

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