how you can get ready for absolutely incredible kids day

An aware parent loves all children he or she interacts with - for you are a caretaker for those moments in time.
~ Doc Childre

When was the last time you told the incredible kids in your life how amazing they are?  How about going one step farther --- taking time from your busy schedule to write your thoughts in a letter as a caretaker for a lasting moment in time for children to cherish?  You’ll have an opportunity to do just that on 19 March, Absolutely Incredible Kid Day®.  

Absolutely Incredible Kids Day takes place on the 3rd Thursday in March

What is Absolutely Incredible Kid Day®?
Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.
― Charles R. Swindoll

Absolutely Incredible Kid Day® (AIKD) is a call to action for adults and teens, who are urged to write letters of support and encouragement to children.  First organized by Campfire USA in 1997, the organization declares AIKD® as a national letter-writing campaign where kids receive letters of support, love and encouragement.  This practice is held yearly on the third Thursday in March.

The goal is for every child to receive a meaningful letter from a caring adult or teen.  The recipient could even be a child you don’t know.  Someone who lives in a homeless shelter or who is in the hospital.  If you don’t have children of your own, how about a niece or nephew?  Or that delightful child in your neighborhood?  

Imagine how awesome it would be it if kids everywhere discover a special letter just for them that’s hidden in their lunchbox or slipped into their mailbox.   Make a deposit in a child’s memory bank!

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Why write a letter?
Letter writing can be seen as a gift because someone has taken his/her time to write and think and express love. 
― Soraya Diase Coffelt 

It’s important for everyone’s well-being and development to foster a feedback-rich environment of communication and caring.  Adults beam when their efforts are recognized through the written word.  Aren’t you over the moon when you receive a commendation from work or an atta-person note from a friend or family member? 

Children need the same encouragement, if not more so, to know they are doing well and that they are loved.  Start a tradition!  Give the gift of writing by exchanging compliments and encouragements through a note or letter. 

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Write from the heart

Where can I find tips and samples for writing my letter?
The proper definition of a man is an animal that writes letters.
― Lewis Carroll

Letters needn’t be long or complex.  Simple and heart-felt work best.  A brief note is lovely, too.  Think of a specific behavior to compliment or a quality you admire. These tips and samples will get you started.

• Find writing tips, sentence starters from Campfire USApa HERE

• Check out sample letters below 

         o   Pinterest
         o   Campfire USA   

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Ideas to kick-start your letter

How can I participate in AIKD®?
To write is human, to get mail: Divine! 
― Susan Lendroth

• Write your letter on kid-friendly stationery whenever possible.  If you don’t have any handy, below are free stationery downloads.

          o   Printablestationery.net
          o   Clipart.com   

• Printable certificates are great ways to encourage youngsters, too.

           o   Crayola Crayons medal of honor coloring page 
           o   Activity Village certificates
           o   Billy 4 Bear certificates
           o   Kids Printable angel certificates

• Encourage organizations, schools and classrooms that you know of to take part in AIKD®.
• Use social media to urge other adults and teens to join.  Tweet, text and tag:  
  #AIKD #KidLiterature  Every child receives a letter on March 19

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Let kids know they are awesome *every* day

Hey, you don’t need a special holiday to let kids know how amazing they are.   Recognize them at every opportunity.  Write it down.  Stand on the rooftop and shout it out. You'll be glad you did!

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Please join the conversation in the comment section.
What will you do for AIKD®?
What additional suggestions can you add to make this day a success?

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