Christmas has been and gone for two weeks now and you’ve got that nagging sensation in the back of your head.

All those presents from friends and family. Sure, you said “Thank You” when you received them but shouldn’t your children be writing letters to express their deep gratitude? And are you a terrible parent if you don’t? 

You’ve tried it before and it was painful, but here’s how to get it done as smoothly and enjoyably as possible.

1. Lower your expectations

You’re not after words that are deep and meaningful to the recipient. You have one goal. To get at least some letters in the post, so this is the time when less is more. Do try to encourage them to ask at least one question beyond “How are you?”

2. That’s right, I said “some”…

You don’t stand a chance of writing a letter to each and every person who gave to them, so pick out those who are at the top of the list. These could be older generations, political ones (I.e the ones who have a subtle moan to your parents… “Did Rosie receive her present? I hadn’t heard, I don’t mind, I just didn’t want it to be lost in the post…” You know the kind), or people you are less likely to see or from whom the gift was unexpected. I also put those who don’t have kids but may have wanted them at the top of this list too. For everyone else, a quick text or thank you next time you meet should suffice.

3. Team up siblings

I.e. “Rosie, you write to Uncle Robert,   Nicola and Auntie Alison. Emily, you write to Granny, Margaret and Noelle” from both of them.

4. Help them if they need it

And sit with them. Write out names and key phrases if they need to copy and makes the spelling less tedious.

5. Typed and printed; yes or no?

It is a real shame that no one seems to write by hand anymore but if it gets the job done then so be it. Especially older kids / teenagers. Just make sure they write their name for a touch of personalisation.

6. Post them straight away

Younger kids especially love using stamps and posting letters through letter boxes. Get them involved

7. Have a carrot

Keep the session short, how long depends on age and, well, you know your own best. And at the end of it, have a great, such as going to the park, cinema etc. After you’ve posted them of course.

8. Decorate freely

For many children, this will be the best bit. Let them use stickers, ink stamps etc etc. Buy them nice note paper or maybe they’ve been given some for Christmas.

9. And breathe!

Good job! It’s great seeing the finished articles stacked. Hopefully everyone will be pleased with their efforts and the recipients will be even more delighted to receive a personal letter in amongst all the bills and junk mail!