Writing Friendly Letters

Our daughters have embarked on a letter writing campaign this year.  Though they were required to write a few friendly letters for school, they have both taken up the pen and paper more than required.  Sometimes, they write to family members, or friends far away.  Other times, they want to write to a sponsored child or an acquaintance who is ill.

Their newest writing endeavor began with a visit.  My husband's cousin, who was in the process of moving across country, stopped at our home for a night.  Since our daughters had a wonderful time visiting with her, they decided to write her.

Pulling out their own personal stationary, they composed letters.  In earnest, they decorated the paper with cute swirly lines and little stickers writing words of endearment to their cousin.  The next step is taking those letters to the mail box. 

With the advancements of technology, I can't help but feel the art of writing letters has fallen to disuse in many people's lives.  Though it is much easier to dash a few lines in an email, text, or fb update, there is such joy when one receives a hand written letter.  In that spirit, we teach and encourage our children to learn to write friendly letters well, and if possible, often.

Ways to Include Extended Family

It happens every September: Grandparent's Day.  At many schools, private and public, grandparents will be asked to visit or notes of appreciation will be written.  Family bonds will be strengthened, and grandparents will feel a part of their grandchildren's school experiences.  As homeschoolers, we aren't limited to  a specific day, celebration, or occassion to include grandparents.  In many ways, as often as possible, grandparents and extended family members can be involved in our homeschooling journeys.

Of all the benefits to homeschooling, regular multi-generational interactions must rank fairly high.  It is one benefit that we seek to draw upon as often as possible.  Over the years, our family has tried to include grandparents and other relatives in our homeschooling days.  Of course, not everyone agrees with our decision to homeschool, and some aren't able to participate regularly due to schedules or living far away.  However, for those family members who are willing and able, it is a tremendous blessing and source of encouragement.


...to read the full article, please visit Growing Your Homeschool.  Today, I'm sharing specific ways we try to include extended family in our homeschool journey.  Won't you visit and include your ideas as well?