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Kids have a lot of big emotions and sometimes struggle with how to express them. Of course, as parents it’s our job to listen and be supportive, but sometimes kids need another way to blow off that emotional steam.
Encouraging kids to journal is a great way to get them in touch with their feelings and express their emotions in a healthy way. Journaling also is a way to practice mindfulness, which helps kids become more focused, reduce anxiety, and learn better. In fact, kids who practice mindfulness, “learn how to pause and respond to situations rather than react,” says mindfulness educator, Danielle Mahoney, in an article on Parents. “They have a better understanding of the ways that their brains work and have an increased sense of curiosity and wonder about their own thoughts, emotions, and body sensations.” Now more than ever kids need to feel safe and in touch with their emotions, and journaling is a great way to do just that.
We also know it can be challenging to get kids to write down everything they are thinking and feeling, especially when they may experience scary and uncertain thoughts. That’s why guided journals are a fantastic way for kids to begin the process of journaling. Guided journals have written prompts that will inspire kids to write and document each day.
Below, see our picks for the best guided journals for kids.
Kid Made Modern Nature Journal Kit
For kids who are into exploring their surroundings, this journal kit is a great gift. It comes with stickers of bugs and leaves as well as prompts that say, “What’s under that rock?” and “Who made those tracks?” Kids will learn about the nature that surrounds them and be excited about exploring.
My Book of Firsts with Sophie la Girafe
This adorable journal is technically for mom and dad to fill out when kids are babies, but we think it could be fun to fill out now with your kids. Take a trip down memory lane and recount first words and first foods with your kids. If you have multiple children, ask the older ones what “firsts” they remember about their younger siblings.
One Question a Day for Kids: A Three-Year Journal
This journal provides kids with prompts like, “What's one thing your parents don't know about you?” and “Rate your teachers from favorite to least favorite.” Kids who are missing their friends and confidants can take some comfort writing down their secrets and deep thoughts in this great journal. The journal is meant to be used for three years, so it will also be great for them to look back at how much they’ve grown since they started.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Blank Journal
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney is a series of books and movies based on the fictional diary of a young boy named Greg Heffley. Kids who love the story will love writing down the events of their own life, just like Greg. For a little inspiration read one of the books or watch one of the movies on demand.
Lighting Bolt Kids Notebook by Erin Condren
Erin Condren is the queen of planners and recently launched a kids collection that includes handwriting journals, blank sketchbooks, and non-dated planners. Each comes with its own set of fun stickers and plenty of pages to write and draw.
Kid Made Modern Journal Kit
Kids can create their own 250-page journal however they like with this great DIY kit. It includes a multicolor pen, stickers, glitter tape, and markers. Kids will love that they’ve created something special to house their thoughts and feelings.
Cheree Berry Paper Adventure Journal
This journal was specifically designed for kids who are away at camp, but we think it’s perfect to use right now while we are social distancing at home. Each day, kids are prompted to record the weather, bookmark special things they want to remember, and fill out journal pages á la Mad Libs.
It's So Me! Squishy Unicorn Diary
This journal is satisfying to the senses as the cover is totally squeezable and squishable. It also comes with a pen and two sticker sheets. This magical journal will be a favorite with unicorn lovers.