Writing Love Letters to our Children
Have you ever thought of writing love letters to your children?
If you don’t like to write, it might sound pretty silly and somewhat outdated in our YouTube and InstaReel driven world. I mean who writes love letters anymore? Love texts, maybe - with lots of emojis? ;)
I’m a writer, so this came naturally to me. It was one of my favorite things to do for my girls all through their school years, and it’s something they appreciated and looked forward to!
WHAT THIS LOOKED LIKE
Lunchbox Surprises. I would put notes in their lunch box, or on their napkins. Simple words of encouragement for the day, or even just a short but sweet “I love you, have a great day!” This was something they looked forward to seeing during the busy and sometimes overwhelming days of public school life.
Refrigerator Messages. We had a white board on our fridge for important reminders, and I would include “I love you” messages plus other encouraging words and Bible verses. It was a way to brighten the day as we all went about our routines.
Beginning and ending of the school year. One of my favorite ways to write love letters to my girls was at the beginning and ending of each school year. This looked like a page or two long letter, validating their value and offering words of hope for a successful and blessed school year, helping to boost their confidence. It looked like honoring their hard work and achievements at the end of the school year. But it was about more than success and accomplishments, and what they’d ‘done’ that year, but about who they were becoming, as I made a point to identify their character and spiritual growth. It was also a great way to keep track of important milestones and events, and their interests and experiences. A “good job” comment is important, but letters go a step further by providing tangible, teachable lessons about how we’ve seen our kids demonstrate godly character qualities. It’s another opportunity to help shape and reinforce positive behavior.
MEMORY BOOKS
Some moms are meticulous about updating baby/memory books. If that’s you, hats off to you because that was not me! In the hustle bustle of busy family life, mixed with work and volunteer responsibilities, I would often forget to update the books until the end of the year. While some memory books are stunning and certainly another way to shower your child with attention, in reality how often do our kids look at their baby books while they are growing up?
Starting a regular practice of writing love letters to your children is a way to keep it fresh and personal throughout the year.
The Bible talks about the power of our words:
Proverbs 16:24 ESV
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
Proverbs 25:11 ESV
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
Proverbs 18:21 ESV
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
Scientific data backs this up. Words are powerful and create lasting impressions on kids, either for good or bad. Positive words shape their security, identity, and confidence, and can help calm anxiety.
Writing love letters to your kids may seem like a small gesture that won’t make much difference in an increasingly fast-paced digital age. But this simple act can have an astounding impact on your child’s self-worth as they realize mom and/or dad took the time to write something heartfelt to them personally. It’s just one more special way we can show our kids they are seen, valued, and loved.
Be different. Start a trend and take the time to write love letters to your children.
You don’t have to be a writer and you don’t even have to like to write. Keep it simple, but consistent. Decide how you want to shower your child with love notes and how often you will do it, then stick with it. Put reminders on your phone calendar.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR WRITING LOVE LETTERS TO YOUR CHILDREN
Here are are some things to keep in mind:
● Date the notes– I wish I would have done this more on my print photos. This way our kids can remember their ages and seasons of life.
● Short and sweet– sometimes less is really more when it comes to writing.
● From the heart– focus on certain personality traits, character qualities, and talents you love about your child.
● Just say no to perfectionism– it’s ok if your handwriting is messy. There is something very special about seeing the imperfect handwriting of those we love.
If you choose to start a love letter writing practice for your kids, I have no doubt they will be blessed and encouraged. These letters will become cherished memories and mementos of your love.
Now, where to put them all? I recommend a special box, or if you’re tight on space, regularly take photos of each letter and compile them into a photobook. Check out Chatbooks, one of my favorite places to collect photos!
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Do you know some special young readers? Check out the first two of seven books in the Questions for Kids picture book series on AMAZON. The third book is now in contract with Ambassador International and coming soon!
