The idea of writing a hand-written letter might be foreign to kids these days, but there are still many skills children can learn from writing letters to their friends, family ...

First, writing those letters helps a child practice their handwriting. With text and email so prevalent now, children spend less time with pen and paper, so this is a good way to practice penmanship.

In kids, studies show that tracing out ABCs, as opposed to typing them, leads to better and longer-lasting recognition and understanding of letters. Writing by hand also improves memory and recall ...

On that basis, letter-writing isn't something anyone owes to children, no matter what you live through or how much you love them. It's vital to look after your mental health.

A modern-day Santa letter. (Flickr: John Pasden )The age of pen-and-paper letter-writing may have passed, but technology has stepped in and the need to write has never been greater.

In kids, studies show that tracing out ABCs, as opposed to typing them, leads to better and longer-lasting recognition and understanding of letters. Writing by hand also improves memory and recall ...

Write an uplifting letter or (for kids) draw a picture that includes a few words of encouragement. Take a snapshot of your work and email the picture to media@trpolice.org ...