A pen pal can be a lot of fun. Here are some tips on how to find a pen pal, and what to expect with this new relationship.

Having a pen pal is a truly exciting experience. Some relationships start off great and trickle away, while others can be pen pals for years and years. The key to having a good pen pal friend is to be a great pen pal friend. Here are some suggestions to help your child start and maintain a lasting pen pal relationship.

Types of Pen Pals

~~When most people think of having a pen pal, they picture kids in far away places that do not even know how to speak English. You can certainly have an international pen pal. It's a great way to learn all about a new country, their customs, and what they do for fun.

~~Your child may also opt for a pen pal in her same country. Perhaps she will find someone that she has a lot in common with, and while distance keeps them apart, they feel close knowing they are from the same country.

~~Some kids have a pen pal as an opportunity for an outreach project. There are prison pen pals, where kids offer hope to other kids in prison, and use this chance to keep their friend positive.

Communicating with a Pen Pal

~~Having a pen pal is rewarding. It is a chance for your child to communicate with someone she may never see, but can picture in her mind. Many pen pals even exchange photos of each other.

~~It is important to respond quickly to a pen pal because they are waiting to hear from your child. Depending on where your child's friend is located, it could take weeks for her to receive a reply, so answering quickly is a good idea.

~~Letters should be happy and bright, especially in the beginning. No one wants to get mail that is depressing and someone is always complaining. Remember that your child's pen pal wants to learn about them and know what exciting things are going on in their life.

~~When your child begins writing a letter, make sure she never gives out personal information. It is a good idea for you to scan your child's letters to make sure that they are appropriate.

~~Some countries do not tolerate religious letters or letters with political content, and chances are the letter may not make it to the intended person, if government officials find it offensive to their country.

~~If any subject matter makes you and/or your child uncomfortable when receiving correspondence from a pen pal, drop the communication immediately. There is no need to send a letter back stating that you are terminating the friendship. In this case, less correspondence is better.

Resources to Find a Pen Pal

~~Some schools offer pen pal programs as a classroom project. Ask your child's teacher if she has any reputable resources for finding a pen pal.

~~PenpalsNow! is a good resource for finding your child a pen pal. Who knows...you may even find one for yourself.

~~Stonesoup.com is another reputable resource for finding a pen pal.

Regardless of where you obtain your pen pal references, it is very important that you stay in the whole process with your child, until she has become very comfortable with the details. Again, make sure she never gives out personal information and always scan your child's letters to make sure that they are appropriate.