When you become a sponsor you tell your kid that “I am interested in you”. I care about you. Your kid may not become a pen pal because they are always busy like us. But they do appreciate your interest.
Write your kid a letter:
- Online – email is always appreciated and the Chavalos now have email access.
- Write a letter – The “teacher” suggests that you keep it simple and write in English.
Remember their birthday
- Send them a nice card to let them know you care.
- Possibly send a gift. (ask us for guidelines on sending)
- Plan a visit to Nicaragua to see your child.
If you communicate with your kid you provide friendship and you can:
- Help build self-esteem
- Help build communication skills
- Encourage learning
- Nurture dreams
- Emphasize your relationship as a friend
What not to expect from your kid:
- Frequent replys. These kids are busy just like other kids. They are also living under much different conditions than those in the US. Many also have difficulty communicating in English.
- Chummy letters. Cultural differences may cause your kid to be quite formal in the beginning. Once again, English may make it difficult for them to express themselves.