Letter writing tips

Writing letters not only strengthens your relationship with your sponsored child and their family, but also keeps you in closer touch with their progress.

Our preferred way of communication is either via email or, if you wish to hand write your letter, scanned in and sent by email. This is because it is better for the environment, quicker, safer and cheaper. However, if you prefer to send a letter to your sponsored child by post then this is fine.

Language
Please write in English and keep your letter short, simple and clear.

Photographs
They are likely to become prized possessions! Send photos of your family, your friends and your life - general situations rather than material wealth. Postcards are also a treat for children.

      Ask your child about their life, for example where they live.

Ask who, what, where, when and how questions ('why' questions are difficult for a child to answer)

 

What not to write about
Please bear in mind your child's social, economic and cultural background differs dramatically to yours. It may be damaging to write about possessions and money, or other material differences between your situation and your child's.

Can more than one person write?
To avoid confusing your sponsored child, all letters should come from one designated letter-writer. Combined letters are welcome; however the same person should always sign and take responsibility for sending and receiving letters. The name of the group and that of the correspondent should also appear at the end of each letter.

Will my child write back?
Yes! Children who are too young to write get help from their family or a program staff member who will identify themselves in the letter.