A safe space
In one recent study of intermediate aged children, an alarming 47% were “at risk of mental unwellness” on two standard testing scales. New Zealand’s kids are experiencing what’s been described as an ‘epidemic of anxiety’ and one strategy for helping them cope is to encourage them to write about their feelings.
For some children, writing to a supportive penpal is a really useful safe space; they can talk about their concerns or feelings without feeling judged or worrying that local friends will find out.
Of course, it’s always best if your child feels able to talk to you about these feelings first, or allows you to know what’s in their letters; ideally, you should agree on an approach with them upfront to maintain their trust.
Watching your children form healthy friendships is always heartwarming, and encouraging them to find a penpal could be another great pleasure. Not only can it help to develop their literacy skills, but it can also set them up to be future global citizens and give them an important safe outlet for their thoughts and feelings. A bright new friendship could be just a few pencil strokes away.
Kylee Harris is an educator who has taught in elementary schools in Singapore and Hong Kong for 5 years. She lives in Florida and continues to teach life skills to young adults in her community.
