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Do you have family that is out of town?  Here is a great fun way for the kids to keep in touch with their cousins!   Making a pen pal kit is a great craft.  Writing letters is a terrific way to practice skills learned in school.  Selecting pictures or items to include with the letter helps with decision making.  The best part is the look on their faces when they get MAIL!!!!

Items Needed:

Pre-addressed envelopes
Book of stamps
Personalized note pad
Fancy pencil
Expandable plastic case

Once all of the items are purchased, crafted and/or prepared place them into the expandable plastic case, put it into a padded envelope and mail it to your child's cousin. Be sure to include a note explaining what this package is all about. 
 

Dear XXX

Because you live so far away
We do not see each other everyday
I'd like to know all about you
places you go and things that you do
Use this kit that I have made
so that our memories will not fade
As my pen pal we will share
things that happen through the year
Sent a note when you have time and then you wait
for me to send mine!

Your cousin  XXXX
 

Personalized Note Pads

This is a simple but useful present.  Have your child decorate the top of a piece of paper (the size you want your note pad to be) and then take it to a copy shop or printer to be made into notepads. Another option is to purchase a note pad with blank pages and have your child decorate each page.

Fancy Pencil

Compliments of Familyfun.com

Craft materials needed...
(note: materials listed are for 1 pencil)

• New colorful pencil

• Approximately 1 foot narrow ribbon (about 1/8 inch wide) to match colors in pencil

• 4 beads any style, color to match pencil  ( (2 ) 6-mm  and (2) 12-mm used in picture)

• Card Stock

• Scissors

• Tacky glue

• Marker or pen

How to Make it?

1. Tie the ribbon around the top of the pencil and secure it with a tight double knot, leaving 2 fairly even ends.

2. Thread the beads onto one end of the ribbon, knot the end at the length you want, and trim.

3. Cut 2 identical hearts from card stock. Glue the hearts together with the other half of the ribbon sandwiched inside as shown. Knot and trim the ribbon. Write a message on the heart.

Tips:
If the ribbon slides down the pencil, glue it in place.

Expandable Plastic Case
 

Purchase a sturdy, expandable plastic envelope from an office supply store.  Select a size that will fit into a padded envelope so that it can be easily mailed.  Have the kids decorate the front and write PEN PAL KIT.