Thank You Notes: A Writing Activity for Your Family

In the rush of school schedules and extracurricular activities, finding simple ways to practice meaningful writing at home is yet another challenge to add to the list. This National Thank You Note Day, families have an opportunity to slow down and connect through the power of words. Writing a thank-you note is a low-pressure activity that helps children organize thoughts, express ideas clearly, and create with purpose. Best of all, it's something families can do together!

• To start, choose someone to thank: a teacher, coach, tutor, family member, or friend. With your child, discuss why this person matters to them. Ask pointed questions like "How did this person help you?" and "How did their actions make you feel?" to help organize their thoughts.

• Next, brainstorm a few ideas together, encouraging specificity. Instead of a simple "Thanks for helping me," try "Thank you for helping me feel more confident in math." Have young children dictate their ideas; older students can draft independently and revise with your guidance.

• Finally, write and share the finished note. Whether handwritten or digital, this step reinforces that writing has real value and meaning outside the classroom. Children get to see that their words matter and can have a powerful impact in their real life and relationships.

If your child needs support with writing, grammar, or brainstorming and organizing ideas, our tutors are here to help! Contact us today at (708) 581-8617 or ilms_office@ilmstutor.com to learn more.