What is “Neighbors From Afar”?

Neighbors from Afar is a monthly snail mail club designed by my autistic daughter and I intended to captivate you and your child(ren) with fascinating stories from fictional “pen-pals” around the world. Each month, a different “pen-pal” will write you or your child a letter. They talk about life in their country. You will discover interesting facts about their family, culture, and even about some interesting animals. The letters are not primarily educational, but rather a hands on way of experiencing a taste of different worlds, different animals, different customs and lifestyles up close and personal. Primarily geared for children and teens, but suitable for all who are a child at heart.

Included in each mailing will be:

A letter from a new “Pen-pal” introducing themselves with a greeting, telling you their name and then describing typical life for them at home and things of interest in their country.

Two 4x6 prints on card stock - at least one of those will be designed like a postcard, encouraging you to write to a loved one. One will feature a scene from the letter and the other will be an animal from that country “photo-bombing” a place or places in that country. (My daughter’s contribution and designing)

A smaller envelope filled with surprises from your pen-pal:

stickers, collector’s cards, real postage stamps from the country, and sometimes some other types of goodies. (Like bookmarks, embroidery thread to make friendship bracelets in the flags colors, a handmade piece of art by Danielle and I)

QR code shared only in letter The QR code will lead you to a secret page on this website where there will be fun art and craft tutorials laid out according to age group, from preschool - high school (adult). The arts and crafts will tie in in some way to the country being explored that month.

There will also be recipes that are typical dishes made in that particular featured country you and your children may want to try.

Sign up by the last day of the month to receive the following month’s letter. The letter will be sent out no later than the 20th of the following month. This is an ongoing subscription which will automatically renew each month, with option to cancel at anytime. Make sure your child’s name is on the address when you sign up so the letter can be directly addressed to him or her.