Compass KidZ calls itself an “online penpal club”, but it is so much more than that! Created by Jennifer Apy and Nancy Daniels, Compass KidZ began as an educational initiative to support classroom teachers in bringing contemporary cultures of the world into many areas of the curriculum. The Compass KidZ™ Project is designed to encourage kids to share and compare their lives with other kids, and in the process, cultivate appreciation for similarities, build respect for our differences, and inspire reflection.

Each Compass KidZ set starts your child off on a world TreaZure Quest as they collect exclusive, limited edition CKidZ™ Medallions. For each country, your child will “meet” a CKidZ Ambassador, who is an 11 year old child living in that country. Each set includes a Medallion that highlights a world treasure proudly chosen by a CKidZ Ambassador - an important landmark, world contribution or vital aspect of world culture today. The 24-page photographic Passport (same size as a real passport!) introduces the Ambassador that chose the Medallion, who shares what it is like to live in their country today with stories and photos. As a BONUS, the set also includes a Mystery Medallion — from another Ambassador whose identity is revealed on the Compass KidZ website. Lisa at Kidstuff PR sent Ryan the Egypt kit, which looks like this:

Speaking of the website, there you and your child will find links to information about all of the countries in the series, info on the medallions, a PenPalz Club, even a Forum that lets your child answer the question of the week and earn points (email address is required). For kids who love studying the culture of other countries, as a supplement to school or just for fun, I strongly encourage you to check out Compass Kidz!