Time For Some ‘Attaboys’
Children can evoke feelings you never knew you had. The fourth annual “Absolutely Incredible Kid Day” on Thursday encourages adults across the country to write a letter to a child in their lives or in their community, expressing their heartfelt emotions.
Sponsored by Camp Fire Boys and Girls, the “Absolutely Incredible Kid Day” celebration is a national call to adults to take a simple step that makes a lasting and positive impact on children.
In honor of Camp Fire’s 90th anniversary, the organization has created a new book that includes some of the heartwarming letters from the first three years of the event called “Letters From the Heart: A Celebration of Letters to Absolutely Incredible Kids!”
The following are excerpts from letters included in the book:
Jordan’s mother, Deborah, stated in her letter, “I love to eat breakfast with you each morning together before I go off to work … . I know each moment how blessed I am to have a special child like you.”
April’s grandparents wanted to help boost her during some tough times and wrote: “Grandpa and I wanted you to know how much we love you and how proud we are of you for all your wonderful accomplishments. Like getting good grades in school and doing your very best in all the sports you are involved in.”
No-No, who is Gregory’s Aunt Nora, wrote in a letter to him, “I love for you to tell me your jokes! Thank you so much for your hugs and kisses! If I had kids, I would want one just like you! You always make me smile, even when you’re in trouble! I’m very lucky to get to share in your life every day and watch you grow up to be a wonderful young man.”
Included in the book is a letter-writing kit and advice to adults who plan to write a letter. The book is available in retail stores, on the Internet at www.campfire.org, or by calling (888) 254-3329. The cost of the book is $11.95 in the United States. Here are some tips:
* To get started, try this: “Do you know what I like about you? I like it when you … .”
* Write what you mean and make it from the heart.
* Begin with a favorite poem or a famous quote that has special meaning to you.
* Think of what you like best about letters you’ve received.
* Be specific and descriptive. Use humor. Don’t lecture.
* Don’t worry about length. A note can be cherished as much as an long formal letter.
* Write it by hand. Feel free to make edits as you go. Don’t over edit.
* Include things you would like to hear in a letter you might receive.
* The letter should build up the child’s self-image, support the child’s sense of positive power, and appeal to their sense of contributing to the lives of others.
To help promote Absolutely Incredible Kid Day, NorthTown Mall is holding a celebration in the J.C. Penney Court from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday.