Letters to children make a big difference

Camp Fire Boys and Girls is calling on all adults to write a letter or note to a child as part of Absolutely Incredible Kid Day on March 20.

The purpose of the letters is to encourage AmericaŐs youth by telling them how important they are. The goal of this day is for every child in America to receive a letter from an adult.

"Children donŐt hear enough positive communication from adults," Shirlee Jackert, executive director of the Long Beach Area Council of Camp Fire Boys and Girls, said.

"We want adults to take a minute out of their day to tell kids that they are neat just for being a kid."

Kathie Lee Gifford, co-star of "Regis and Kathie Lee," is the national spokesperson for Absolutely Incredible Kid Day. According to Jackert, the national day has been recognized on the floor of the California Assembly and in all of the local city councils.

Background research conducted by Camp Fire Boys and Girls has shown that encouraging letters can make an impact on the lives of children as they grow up.

The messages of the letters last through the years. Many have been saved and reread over and over.

"I still have letters from my Forest Home camp counselor," Laura Hansen, a Long Beach resident, said.

"She wrote me when I was in seventh grade and encouraged me to stay in school and to stay strong in Christ." Hansen, 21, is a senior at California Polytechnic University, Pomona.

The event encourages adults to write to any child. The child does not need to be a son, daughter, sister or brother. Children in shelters and hospitals need even more encouragement from others.

Camp Fire Boys and Girls, which celebrates its 87th birthday this month, is a nonprofit organization that involves youth in educational programs and community service.

Here are some tips to writing an absolutely incredible kid letter:

1. Set aside time to focus on what needs to be said.
2. Try to think of an enjoyable activity that involves the child or some special quality in him or her.
3. Try to be descriptive and specific. Use humor to make them smile.
4. The letter can be long or only a few lines. Remember that it is what is written that matters.
5. Write the letter by hand to make it more personal.
6. Deliver the letter by mail or in some other creative way such as in a lunch box or under a pillow.
7. Try to make writing appreciative letters a habit.