Free Lesson on Letter Writing + 5 Pen Pal Programs for Kids

Pen pals are people who regularly write to each other, particularly via postal mail or as some affectionally call it these days of email, snail mail. Pen pals are usually strangers whose relationship is solely on their exchange of letters.

All over the world, people choose to have a pen pal for a variety of reasons. Pen pals can help build new friendships, exchange cultures and values, learn a new language, improve social studies skills, and hone social skills, all while enhancing writing abilities. Most importantly, pen pals allow a child to explore beyond the confines of their home and learn about the world and other people.

Check out our free lesson on how to write a friendly letter from the LIFEPAC 3rd Grade Language Arts curriculum. Then, view our list of pen pal opportunities that have been tried and tested.

DOWNLOAD AOP’S FREE LESSON ON HOW TO WRITE A FRIENDLY LETTER (PDF)

NASA Astronaut
Your child can write and receive letters from real astronauts through NASA’s pen pal program. Choose from NASA’s list of active astronauts before composing your letter. Consider asking specific questions that only an astronaut can answer and feel free to make requests for an autographed photo. Mail can then be sent to the following address:

NASA Johnson Space Center
CB/Astronaut Office
Houston, TX 77058

International Pen Friends
Traveling may not be an option right now, but your child can still learn about other countries and cultures. The International Pen Friends Club has connected millions of pen pals across the globe. You can register for a membership on their site, and for a small membership fee, your child will receive a list of four to fourteen pen friends from the same age group. Pen pals are usually paired by similar interests, but your child can also request a specific geographic location.

Letters to a Pre-Scientist
Letters to a Pre-Scientist connects students to STEM professionals through postal mail to broaden students’ awareness of what STEM professionals do at work and to inspire all students to explore a future in STEM. This yearlong program includes the exchange of eight letters and focuses on low-income communities across the country.

Operation Gratitude
Help your child express their gratitude to America’s military and first responders for their service and dedication. After registering online, students receive a letter-writing guide and instructions for shipping letters to Operation Gratitude. Every care package includes a bundle of letters from grateful Americans thanking our heroes.

Letters Against Isolation
Senior citizens tend to grow lonely without the ability to interact with the wider world. Senior loneliness is a well-documented issue and has effects on their mental and physical health. Sign up to become a Letters Against Isolation volunteer and send seniors around the world handwritten letters filled with joy.