Pen Pal

English Language Arts

• The child has learned how to write and format a friendly letter to communicate with a pen pal, practicing basic conventions of letter writing such as greeting, body, and closing.
• They have developed their vocabulary and language skills through writing about their experiences, interests, and thoughts to share with their pen pal.
• The activity encourages the child to practice their handwriting and improve their fine motor skills as they write out their letters by hand.
• Through receiving letters from their pen pal, the child gains exposure to reading and comprehending written communication, building their reading skills and understanding of written language.

Encourage the child to incorporate creativity in their letters by including drawings, stickers, or small objects (like a pressed flower or a bookmark) to make their letters more engaging and personal. Prompt them to ask their pen pal questions to foster meaningful conversation and encourage a curiosity about the world outside of their own. Additionally, suggest that the child keep a journal of their pen pal experiences, recording their thoughts, feelings, and memorable moments, which can further develop their writing skills and provide a keepsake of their pen pal journey.

Book Recommendations

• Dear Dragon by Josh Funk: A delightful story about two pen pals, George and Blaise, who discover that they are not as different as they initially thought. This book celebrates the joy of friendship and the excitement of exchanging letters with a pen pal.
• The Jolly Postman or Other People's Letters by Janet Ahlberg: This interactive picture book takes children on a journey through various fairy tale characters' lives by reading the letters and cards that the Jolly Postman delivers to them.
• Yoko Writes Her Name by Rosemary Wells: Yoko, a kindergarten student, struggles with writing her Japanese name in English, but with the help of her friends and teacher, she learns to embrace her unique heritage and skills. This heartwarming story explores the value of diversity and perseverance.