The art of letter writing is fading due to internet email. It is a great surprise and a definite delight to get a real snail mail letter addressed to you! Can you find a person who wants to write and mail letters back and forth with you on a regular basis?
Finding a safe pen pal can be a challenge. You want your child to find a penpal from a safe source. Here is a related site that gives information about the benefits of penpalling for kids School teachers often have safe listings. The lists are overseen by classroom teachers so lists are safer for a child. Still, all letter writing to and from a penpal can be made safer if the child shares the letters he sends and recieves with his family. There are also listings of foreign students who want pen pals. The Ranger Rick magazine offers a penpal service.
A grandparent, aunt, uncle, or cousin makes an excellent choice. Try an aquaintance who has moved to another town. Homeschooling penpal exchanges offer safe choices.
