~ Written by Dara Podjarski Marcus

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We all know that play and social interaction has a long list of benefits: it helps kids develop their sense of self, be part of a team, solve problems, develop language, learn to be independent, understand feelings...and so much more.

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But in these days of corona, staying 'social' is the giant missing piece of 'social distancing'. Throw in lockdown, quarantine and isolation and there is a lot of lost social development.

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It means we have to find other ways to maintain and strengthen friendships.

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This is where a type of pen pal project can really help. Here's how:

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1: Choose two friends to reach out to, ideally within walking distance of your home.

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2: Draw a picture or write a note, depending on your kid's age and ability. You can even cut the paper into a cute shape, such as a heart or star. This is also a great way for ABC learners to practise their letters as well as to encourage a reluctant writer.

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3: Design an envelope. Decorate with stickers and any other craft items you have. If you want to create your own envelope, you can staple a piece of paper together into an envelope shape. You can also add a little handle on top to turn it into a little paper bag. Let your kids get creative!

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4: Time to deliver! This is a great motivator to get the kids out of the house. Go for a walk and drop the letter at their friend's house. If you're in quarantine/isolation, just take photos of their handiwork and send it to their friends electronically. 

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5: #bringingsocialback

Hashtag it when you're done to pay it forward and spread the love.

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THAT'S IT!

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You'll see how excited your kids are to give and how they'll want to do it again. You'll see how excited the friend is to receive - and how they want to write a reply.

 

In a nutshell, you've helped them nurture their communication skills and strengthen a sense of connection with a friend.

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This can start as a once-off activity, but you can repeat it and make it an ongoing project with the same friends or others too. It's a really simple project that goes a really long way, connecting friends one letter at a time.