How to Be a Pen Pal to a Grandchild Who Lives Far Away

By definition a pen pal is a friend you make and get to know by keeping in touch through letters and other correspondence. Learning how to be a pen pal to a grandchild who lives far away promotes ongoing communication and helps to keep you connected and involved. A side benefit of this type of relationship is the improvement in writing skills that both you and your grandchild will experience if you regularly and consistently correspond with each other. And, just think of the fun you will have sharing memories, events and tidbits about your day and week. To get started with your pen pal relationship, take these steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Letters & Envelopes
• Postage Stamps
• Assorted stationery and pens
• Grandchild or Grandchildren

1. Draft your first letter explaining to your grandchild that you would like to set up a pen pal relationship. Suggest the topics you will write about and how often you wish to correspond. Review and revise your letter and WRITE IT BY HAND. Place it in a stamped envelope, put in the mailbox and wait for a response.

2. While waiting to hear back from your grandchild, collect an assortment of fun and colorful stationery, stickers, fancy pens and pencils. Find a fun filled box or basket to hold your pen pal "stuff".

3. Think of themes you can write about and creative ways to craft your message. For holidays, you can write on pumpkin and Christmas tree stationery.

4. Surprise your grandchild every now and then by sending a special treat with your letter, i.e. a small box of chocolates for Valentine's Day, plastic Easter eggs filled with tiny toys and other treats or a new book.

5. For your grandchild's birthday, don't just send a card, write something that has a special meaning and include it with the birthday gift.

6. Include photos, a video or audio letter (a recording of you reading your letter and sharing additional memories). Whatever you do, don't forget to send a written letter as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Since a pen pal relationship is an exchange of letters, make sure each of your letters is answered before you send additional ones. Oh what fun you are going to have!

Resources

• Simple Solutions for Family & Home

[desertdenizen]

on 5/24/2009 Althea,Excellent ideas and reminders. I was looking for ideas on writing to my long distance granddaughter and have gotten several from your article.Thank you.

[Limowreck]

on 7/28/2008 These are great ideas for a very sensitive issue. My mother has been struggling with distance from some of her grandchildren since the day they were born. I'll be sure to forward this to her. Thank you.

[changeling]

on 7/27/2008 This is so cute and a great way to teach effective writing skills to the child; I almost can't wait until I have a grandchild to do this with! Great article.