Tip: The Birthday Letter

This is one of those things I wished we had started when our boys were babies. Having twins, we spent much of our time in "survival mode."

Write your child a letter each year at the time of his/her birthday. What can you write about? You can include highlights and events of the previous year. You can also include some ordinary activities and as well as funny stories. More importantly, include moments of pride, not necessarily for accomplishments and honors but for character. Think of times your child worked hard for a neighbor, told the truth when it wasn't easy, helped a friend in need, stood up for someone being picked on, gave sacrificially of time or resources, honored his/her parents, shared with a sibling, etc. This is a great place to tell of times where the Lord has been faithful throughout the year by answering prayers you prayed on your child's behalf. Then, add words of encouragement for the upcoming phase of life. Be sure to include how much you love him/her.

When do you want to give the letter? Well, when your child is a baby or toddler, put the letter away for later. You can give the letters to him/her at high school graduation or perhaps the 21st birthday. As they get older, you can give the letter on the actual birthday. Be sure to keep the letters together in a file or notebook so your child (even as an ) can look back and read at a later date.

The possibilities are endless. Grandparents can do this for their grandchildren. Also, it doesn't have to be a birthday letter. It can be at the beginning of the school year, graduations or other meaningful times.

Robin