No.156
Thank-You Mail
Japanese name: ありがとう郵便
Materials
- One large folded card per person
- A card for each participant written beforehand by the facilitator
- Drawing materials and a posting box
- One central LED candle
How to play
- An adult switches on the central LED. Explain that participants will recall being helped today and describe the specific action. Show where to write the recipient's name.
- Choose one person to thank. Write what they did and how you felt. Preschool children may draw a picture; an adult checks the intended message with them before adding a few words.
- Fold the card to keep its contents private, write the recipient's name outside, and put it in the box. Ask the facilitator for help if needed; do not invent an experience just to have something to write.
- The facilitator checks names and delivers the cards. Recipients read privately at their seats and choose whether to read aloud. Do not require replies or anything in return on the spot.
- The facilitator also gives everyone their prepared card describing a real positive action and checks that all have received it. Look at the light briefly, restore room lighting, and have an adult switch off the LED. Return the cards to their recipients to finish.
Ways to adapt
Preschool children: draw and ask an adult to write the message. Younger primary school children: describe one action. Older primary school children and adults: add their feelings.