- For very little kids, it is great to include a handprint on a thank you card to make it personal. Be sure to use washable, non-toxic paint! And if your little one doesn't have the patience for 20 or more prints, just make one and scan it into your computer and print out as many as you need.

- Thumb prints also make nice personal additions to greetings. Two prints connected at the bottom make an adorable and easy heart to decorate a card or as a closing on a thank you message.

- Another fun idea is to make a big poster stating your thanks and then take a photo of your child holding the poster. Include this photo on the thank you card.

- Emerging writers will have confidence in printing a message if you provide them with lined paper. Make your own on your computer and print out sheets for them to fill in. Remember, mistakes are OK - this is their greeting. It isn't for a grade in school and it isn't a reflection on you.

- Lots of internet sites offer print your own thank you cards. You can even run colorful construction paper through the printer.

- How about making a thank you treat? Print a message that is the size of a candy bar. Fold the paper around the candy bar and add a personal thank you for the specific gift.

A few guidelines for grown ups and kiddos about when written thank yous are necessary:

- For any gift received not in the presence of the giver (such as by mail) a thank you is required!

- For gifts of congratulations

- Weddings, baby showers

- For donations or participation in your children's fundraising efforts

- After a job interview

In some instances a written thank you is optional - they are always appreciated but not necessary:

- For a gift given at a birthday party - as long as the recipient thanks the giver personally!

- For playdates

Click here for more of Jill Jolton's advice on Momslikeme.com.