Jenn HollowellChildren and Journal Writing
October 8th 2008 16:35
I’ve been encouraging my children to express their feelings through art over the years and, now that they’re writing more and more in school, I’m encouraging expression through journal writing. Because we’re a VERY blended family, it’s confusing and frustrating at times for us all and sorting out these feelings in journals is a great outlet.
Though my nephew doesn’t seem interested in this practice right now, I think he’ll change his mind eventually. For him, the journal will act more like a tool. I’m going to be teaching him how to vent his anger, make future goals for his career or educational planning, and enhance his memory. It may or may not work, but it’s worth a try!
I’ve been writing in a journal since I was eleven and it’s been the best way for me to channel feelings I’m not ready to talk about, write out memories, and sort out feelings before having a conversation. I use my journal for many other things, as well, like recording dreams, pondering how life is, and making goals. These techniques for keeping a journal will be incorporated into my children’s learning plan in the future. I don’t want overwhelm them.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve been teaching all of them throughout this experience is that these writings do not need to be or have to be read by anyone. If they want to share their writings with someone, then that’s fine, but it is by no means a requirement. This has helped my oldest explore thoughts and make his journal his own, but he does share it from time to time when he sees the other children talking about what they’re doing in their journals when they’ve created art or something else creative.
Do you enccourage your children to keep a journal?
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