GETTING STARTED

• fill out the notecard introducing the kit to the other person
• send one notebook to the person you want to keep in touch with
• use the enclosed large mailing envelope to ship it
• keep one for yourself
• start by reading, signing, and exchanging the "Pledge"
• in doing this, you are promising to write once a month for a full year

WRITING YOUR LETTERS

• set a time each month to sit down and write a letter
• use the stationery sheets for that month (January, February, March, etc.)
• if you get stuck and need some writing ideas, look at the tips on the left-hand side
• include drawings, stickers, photos, or keepsakes to make it creative
• mail to the other person using the enclosed small envelopes
• store letters you receive in the keepsake folder
• you will have them to look over and remember for years to come

LETTER WRITING TIPS

• when writing to children under 12 years of age, print (not cursive writing)
• writing letters takes time
• form a mental picture of your grandchild or grandparent
• think about the things that you enjoy or appreciate about them
• be specific and be descriptive
• try being funny
• don't spend a lot of time describing the current weather
• highlight information you don't want your reader to miss
• attach stickers to emphasis a point or just to add fun
• what you share should be a part of you -- your interests and experience matter
• include a photograph, draw a picture, be creative
• find time to write another letter -- make it a habit