Have your child write thank-you notes. This can develop writing skills, boost a child’s self-esteem, and build character.

To nurture your child’s desire to write thank-you’s, don’t make it a chore. Inspire him.

When you give or receive special thanks, share how you feel with your child. Say why you’re thanking someone. Explain what another person’s kind words mean to you.

Make time for a quiet talk with your child. Discuss the ways his teacher helped him during the school year. Ask him to tell you some of the specific things that he remembers. Then help him write a thank-you note that mentions some of those special things. If your child is just learning to write, have him dictate his note to you.

Your child can also write notes to:

• Cheer someone up.
• Give a compliment.
• Encourage someone.
• Tell someone he misses them.

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