Letter Writing: An Expression of Respect for Your Art Students
Letter writing is a simple and effective way to show respect and care for your students, while boosting engagement in your class. Because I know that my readers teach both adults and children, I have broken down my recommendations into two categories: Elementary and Middle School and Teens and Adults. Either way, the idea is to write to students to let them know when they are doing well, and to show appreciation for the work they are doing.
Elementary and Middle School
Little ones and older kids alike will be overjoyed if they receive a ‘happy note’ home! I recommend purchasing a bulk pack of blank cards with assorted designs (these are good to have around at home as well). Reference specific events or accomplishments that you are praising, and offer actionable steps the student can take to continue on the positive path. Try leaving a note in their desk or in their folder.
Letter writing can help build respect with your students.
Teens and Adults
Teens may not want to admit it, but they would be very happy to receive positive praise in the form of a note from their teacher. It would probably be better to send your note via email or any other app you use with your high schoolers, but of course, you know your students best and I have seen 9th grade classrooms where teachers keep exit slips in the form of post-its handy so they can write to students who are working hard. Something about the post-it makes it feel less intense and somehow matches the energy level of the high schoolers I’ve worked with, who might be ‘too cool’ for a formal note. :)
Similarly, with adults, keep it simple. Some professors have group message chains with their students online, so you can always give a shout-out on that thread. You can also send a quick email, or, if you are teaching online, you can send a message to a student during a live session to praise their good work! It could even be as simple as sending a cheerful emoji when a student provides a new insight on a topic.
Spread Joy
Whether you are working with little ones, older kids or adults, everyone likes to hear positive feedback on their efforts. Look for moments to celebrate, and give yourself some kind of schedule to follow. For example, every Friday before the start of the day, you could write two notes. Always remember to keep it natural and uncompetitive, especially with little ones, who might feel slighted if they don’t receive a note home. Try to be sensitive to this and consider sending notes home on Fridays and having the kids wait until they get home to open them, that way the notes don’t bring any sadness, only joy.
Shop some of my favorite blank card packs:
Papyrus Blank Cards with Keepsake Box, Garden Critters (20-Count)
Papyrus Blank Cards with Envelopes, Plants and Critters (14-Count)
Papyrus Blank Cards with Envelopes, Sophisticated Unicorn (12-Count)
For a handmade option, check out these hand-painted cards from Lalonde Studios!!