In this fast-moving technology world dominated by texting and instant messages, it seems that people have lost the art of penning down letters. It is one of the best mediums through which you can spend quality time with your child and create long-lasting bonds, pass on values, and preserve memories for lifetime. At a time when we are hooked to text messages, writing letter seems a little old fashioned.But there is a reason why several successful people vouch by letters written to them by teachers, parents and mentors.
A handwritten letter is more than just words on paper; it’s a tangible expression of love and thoughtfulness.
Letters encourage reading and writing skills
Writing and receiving letters fosters strong reading and writing skills in children. When kids write letters, they practice organizing thoughts, spelling, and grammar, which enhances their writing abilities. Reading letters allows them to engage with written language in a meaningful way, improving their comprehension and vocabulary. The personal, tangible nature of letters makes reading enjoyable, while the act of writing helps develop communication skills. Over time, exchanging letters becomes a creative and educational exercise that strengthens both reading and writing, encouraging a lifelong love for literacy and expression.
Letters create memories that last forever
One of the most powerful reasons to write letters to your child is the emotional connection it sets. A letter requires time, reflection, and care and when you write a letter, you are not only conveying your thoughts but also pouring your heart into it.
Receiving a letter is like getting a piece of your loved one wrapped in words. It strengthens the emotional bond between the writer and the receiver, as it reflects sincerity, deep thoughts, and affection in a form they can hold onto. A letter can serve as a gentle bridge and remind your child of the love and care that exists between you.
Letter is a keepsake that can be kept for years. Your child may open the box with the years down, read through words by you, and feel waves of warmth and comfort circulating within them. Over time, such letters may become something they like most about themselves, such things that they may pass on to generations yet to come.
You can imbed wisdom in the little one through letters. It is a beautiful chance to write down lessons and advice that they can use their entire lives. Sometimes, your child is going through a tough time. Other times, it is a milestone event or just everyday life; these letters can be a great source of wisdom and advice for them.
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You can use those letters to share stories about your own experiences and the lessons you would have learned in the process. Framing your personal experiences within those letters is what will help your child understand the world from your perspective, teaching them life skills such as resilience, empathy, and decision-making. Those letters would serve like a roadmap in the future of your child to know how to navigate through the ups and downs of life.
Letters open up windows to better perspectives
As your child grows older, these letters will serve as a window of who you were at different stages of their life. Whether it’s the humor in your anecdotes, the warmth in your encouragement, or the wisdom in your advice, these letters will have a real-world connection with the parents they grew up with. In that sense, you’re also preserving not just memories but also the essence of your relationship.
Writing letters will help keep the authentic voice of you to the child. Your words, your tone, and your feelings will find their way to paper in pure form so that your child can, even from a distance, always hear your “voice.”
Writing letters encourages the skill of communicating
Writing letters to your child in an age when much communication is abbreviated or rushed encourages the art of thoughtful, intentional communication. You model to your child the importance of making time to reflect about the way one feels and putting those feelings into words.
Your letters might inspire your child to probe further into his thoughts and feelings, either in writing or through more reflective spoken communication. This will further raise the bar on his ability to communicate with others better and, therefore, build stronger connections for the present and future. Teaching him about effective communication is something that will help him throughout his life.
Jawaharlal Nehru’s book is one of the most popular books in this context
India’s former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru wrote letters to his daughter Indira Gandhi, in 1928 while in prison when she was 10 years old and set an example on to what extent fathers can go to make sure their kid gets the right wisdom. The book of the collection of the letters was published in 1929 by Allahabad Law Journal Press. The letters comprised 30 letters sent from Nehru to Indira Gandhi. The letters were originally written in English and later were translated to Hindi by Munshi Premchand.