When we were kids, we had no choice but to write handwritten thank-you notes after holidays and birthdays, and the only way to talk to a pen pal was through letters. Kids now are exposed to various digital methods in which they can type their text and click send — it's that simple, and it gets them used to the idea of instant gratification. Is it personal? No. Does it help enhance their fine motor skills the way using a pencil does? Nope. Is it teaching them patience? Doubtful.

Disney Junior [1] is using Princess Sofia to try and change children's views on snail mail and show them the excitement and joy that comes with sending a handwritten note and receiving one in return. Through Dear Sofia [2], kids can design stationary to print out, then they can write the princess a letter asking her questions or sharing their personal adventures.

Parents can send the letters to the address provided [3], and Sofia will write back shortly, giving children the opportunity to feel the joy in receiving a personalized note.

Though this program is very niche — your child may not be a fan of Sofia — trying it out could still be fun, or you could encourage them to write to family members and friends in a similar way. The art of writing letters shouldn't die with the birth of digital messaging, and to make sure of that, we need to pass it down to our kids.