Think of when you were a child first waking on the morning of your birthday. You anticipated a fun day in store, including a birthday card waiting in the mailbox.

You likely peeked inside to find an envelope with the familiar handwriting of a loved one. You gasp–it says your name! A handwritten letter sparks excitement that never seems to dim.

Sadly, letter writing isn’t as popular as it once was. The invention of the telephone was, of course, a turning point in history. For the first time, communication was nearly instantaneous, resulting in fewer and fewer letters being written. Today, there are more competitors. With emails, texting, social media, and direct messages, the handwritten letter is all but extinct.

The COVID-19 outbreak has many of us social distancing. We’re cooped up at home trying desperately to feel connected to our friends and loved ones. Sure, technology has gifted us with text messages and Facebook, even FaceTime, but there’s one form of communication we aren’t using: the handwritten letter. We could all use that long-forgotten excitement and old-fashioned charm. Here are some tips and guidelines for your letter writing:

Keep it positive. Send well wishes, jokes, compliments, a funny story, or card. The goal is to bring a smile to your recipient’s face, however you can.

Get creative. Create art using the supplies around your home and make something unique! Search “snail mail” on Pinterest for ideas. Even the youngest of children can participate.

Try hand-delivering your letter. Need some fresh air and exercise? Your neighbors would love a letter. For children, a walk or bike ride to a neighbor’s house may count as gym credits.

Reach out to the community. Sending letters to friends and loved ones is a fantastic idea! Also consider nursing homes, teachers, and small businesses. Do you have a favorite restaurant? Deliver a “thank you” letter when you pick up your order.

Regardless of age, writing a personally-addressed letter is a fun way to connect with others and make memories. For parents, letter writing teaches children to be kind and compassionate–especially in times of hardship.

For a shoutout on the Tuscarawas County Anti-Drug Coalition’s Facebook page, send a photo of your letter writing experience to dsmith@pfcs1.org. Here are some more activities you can enjoy at home:

GAME:

Keep it in the Air

Materials:

1 balloon (or other lightweight object)

Directions:

Toss the balloon in the air. Players must prevent the balloon from touching the ground, using a single tap at a time (no catching allowed). How long can you keep the balloon in the air?

 

RECIPE:

Butter in a Jar

Ingredients:

One large jar with a lid

Heavy cream or whipping cream

Salt

Marbles (optional)

Directions:

1. Fill the jar approximately 1/2 full with heavy whipping cream.
2. Add a marble or two to speed up the process (optional). Secure lid.
3. Shake until butter forms. Can take 8-15 minutes.
4. Open jar and add a pinch of salt. Stir.
5. Enjoy butter on crackers or bread.

*To find recipes using ingredients you have at home, visit Fridgetotable.com

 

CRAFT:

DIY Bathtub Paint    

Ingredients

⅓ cup clear dishwashing soap

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Food coloring

Ice cube tray

Directions:

1. Mix cornstarch and soap in a bowl.
2. Pour mixture into ice cube tray, ½ full.
3. Add 4-8 drops of food coloring to each section. Mix until smooth.
4. Have fun with your palette of paint!

 

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:

Popcorn Pushups

Put a small bowl of popcorn on the floor. Assume a pushup position above the bowl. With each pushup, stick out your tongue to get one piece of popcorn. Who can do the most pushups?

CONVERSATION STARTER: “What is your favorite outfit to wear, and why?”

More information via adctusc.org.