The Old Schoolhouse® Product & Curriculum Reviews

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Pop Up Pen Pal Cards Review by Kim Kargbo

Play Odyssey
800-465-5048
3 Alan Road
Spring Valley NY 10977
http://www.playoi.com

This cute little product is for budding writers, especially those who have people to whom they wish to send letters or cards. The Card Kit includes 12 pre-scored, pre-printed cards (5.5x8.5" when folded), and 12 "pop-up" characters that can be assembled so that they pop up when the card is opened. Inside the card there are a couple of lines for the child to write something, and a traceable greeting such as "Thinking of You..." or "Happy Birthday." The lines are about 3/4" high and have the dotted line in the middle for early writers. The cards are made of heavy cardstock, and they are colored and patterned inside but white outside, with lines pre-printed on the outside for the addresses. In this way, there is no envelope needed, just a bit of tape to hold the card together in the mail.

These cards would be a cute craft to do with young students, but they would also be a fun way to practice handwriting and do something for others at the same time. It would be an excellent way to work copywork into your school day, by having the child copy a Bible verse or saying into the card before mailing it to Grandma, an aunt, a friend, someone at church, or anyone who would appreciate a cheerful note from a thoughtful child.

The package says it is for ages 6+, but I don't think it would be that suitable for much above 6 or 7 years (unless the child was still just learning to write). There would be older children who would enjoy making the pop-up cards, but the lines would probably be too big for them to use for handwriting practice. The kit is available for $12.99.

Product review by Kim Kargbo, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, February 2010

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