This activity is suitable for children between 6 - 15 years old. 

• Sharing letters within a community fosters a sense of belonging and support.

• Acts of compassion lead to sustainable positive relationships and a culture of kindness.

• Writing paper, greeting cards, pens, crayons, stickers, envelopes.

Preparation: 1 hour, Implementation: flexible depending on the project (e.g. once a week for 30 minutes).

1. Start by discussing the importance of compassion and kindness and how positive messages can affect the well-being of others.

2. Students can choose who to write to, either from their personal circle, school or wider community.

3. Encourage pupils to express their feelings and thoughts through writing or drawing. It is important that the messages are sincere and positive.

4. Pupils can share their letters with the class or leave them secretly for the addressee. For the wider community, organise a mailing or personal delivery.

5. After the activity, lead a reflection where students reflect on their feelings while writing and think about the impact their message can have.

In the digital age, students may also create social media massages or videos.

Connect with another school in another country and exchange letters or cards, promoting intercultural understanding.

After writing their Letters of Compassion—whether to themselves, someone else, or even to a difficult emotion—invite participants to take a few moments to sit quietly and gently reconnect with the feelings that arose during the writing. Encourage them to place a hand over their heart or close their eyes if they feel comfortable, and notice any warmth, tension, or emotion present in the body.

"Letters of Compassion" is a heartfelt activity that nurtures emotional intelligence and empathy by guiding students to express care, gratitude, or support through written words. By writing letters or making cards for peers, teachers, family members, or community members in need of encouragement, students develop the ability to recognize and respond to the emotional states of others. This process not only helps them become more attuned to the feelings and experiences of people around them but also fosters a sense of responsibility in building compassionate, supportive relationships. The act of writing itself offers a moment of reflection and emotional growth, while the shared gesture strengthens bonds and creates a more inclusive and caring school environment.

Be mindful of the privacy and sensitivity of the topics, especially when choosing recipients outside the school. Encourage inclusiveness and positivity.