Drawing Pen Pals: Letters With Pictures
Drawing pen pals swap letters full of pictures. It's a fun way for kids to practise writing, make friends and keep drawing. Here's how to start.
Drawing pen pals swap letters that are mostly pictures, with a few words. It is a fun way for kids to practise writing, stay connected with friends or family and look forward to real mail. Even kids who cannot write much yet can join in.
In a world of instant messages, getting a real letter is exciting. Adding drawings makes it even more special, and it takes the pressure off kids who are still learning to write.
Who can be a pen pal?
- A cousin in another city
- A grandparent
- A friend who moved away
- A classmate (through a school program)
- A child in another country (through an organized program)
What to include
- A drawing of something they did this week
- A question for their pen pal ("What's your favorite animal?")
- A drawing for the pen pal to color
- A comic about their pet
- A few sentences, or just their name for young kids
Alien letters
A fun twist: write letters as if from another planet. How to Draw: Silly Aliens gives kids goofy aliens to draw. Pen pals can each invent an alien character and write letters from their alien's point of view, describing their planet and asking about the other's.
Keep it going
- Set a schedule, like once a month.
- Keep a folder of letters received.
- Decorate envelopes.
- Include a self-addressed envelope to make replying easy.
Skills kids build
Drawing pen pals practise writing, storytelling, asking questions and patience (waiting for replies!). For more long-distance ideas, see drawing to stay close to faraway family.
Questions parents ask
What is a drawing pen pal?
A pen pal who exchanges letters filled with drawings as well as words, which is ideal for young children still learning to write.
How do I find a pen pal for my child?
Start with cousins, grandparents or friends who have moved. Some schools and organizations also run supervised pen pal programs.
What should kids include in pen pal letters?
Drawings of their week, a question for their pen pal, a short message and maybe a picture for their friend to color.
More in friends, family and talking, or browse all 217 posts on the blog.
Keep reading
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- Drawing to Stay Close to Faraway FamilyLive far from grandparents or cousins? Drawing helps kids stay close: video call art sessions, mailed drawings and shared drawing books. Ideas inside.
- A Drawing Playdate: The Easiest Activity to HostHosting a playdate? A drawing playdate is easy, calm and fun for kids who don't know each other well. Here's a simple plan with games and a take-home.
- A Five-Minute Morning Drawing RoutineA five-minute morning drawing routine can calm rushed mornings and wake up kids' brains. Here's how to fit it in, plus quick drawing ideas.
