*This is a sponsored post.
Journaling is an activity of reflection and provides many benefits for young people. Essentially, it’s like keeping a diary, but it can be adapted to suit your child’s specific interests and doesn’t necessarily have to be all about their day. For instance, if they have a keen interest in space, they could keep a journal about new space-related information they have discovered. I have teamed up with a private school in Buckinghamshire to explore the benefits of journaling in further detail.
Improves Writing Skills
When children are asked to write an essay for school, they write it and it’s finished. With a journal, they are encouraged to practise more frequently, perhaps even every day. Just like with any skill, the more they practise, the better they will become. As they have full control over their journal, as opposed to a piece of schoolwork, the experience tends to be more enjoyable.
Boosts Curiosity
A journal is an interesting place for children to jot down things they have learnt or queries they have. For instance, if they have visited a museum, they could write down the interesting things they saw and discovered. This helps foster their inquisitive nature, which is important for learning.
Encourages Ambition
Children can write down both their short- and long-term goals in their journal, which encourages them to be more ambitious and motivated. This will help them look to the future with a more optimistic attitude because they will have things to look forward to and work towards.
Reduces Stress
One key benefit of journaling for children is that it can help reduce stress. It can be an outlet for them to get certain things off their chest and reflect on any negative thoughts and experiences. This can help them better understand their emotions and what triggers them so that they can learn to manage their anxiety and look for positive solutions.
Do you or anyone in your family have a journal?
Benegits both mental and social skills
This is so simple, enjoyable and a brilliant idea! my daughter uses drawing to express her emotions and to reflect on her day, as she is just 6 but i can see a journal being so useful for her writing skills as well x
My 6 year old daughter loves to write about her day in her diary. I dont even need to encourage her, she loves to and then loves to read it to us. Such a great idea to get them writing and thinking like you say.
My youngest loves Journaling. She has books full of notes, memories, doodles and thoughts. She was encouraged to keep a journal in primary school when she was going through a rough time and it has really helped with her stress. x
I hadn’t considered journalling as an option for my 6 year old but think I may do this with them. Great article.
This is a great idea. At the minute my two are also very keen on drawing their own comics which often also reflect anything they are working through.