Remember that journal you had as a kid? The one where you’d write down your favourite parts of the day or who upset you? The one where you’d basically pour your heart out into because you knew it was safe from the prying eyes of others? If you didn’t, then you need to understand how beneficial it actually is for a person to journal, especially a child. It is an effective tool to regulate emotions and articulate thoughts. There are a lot of benefits of journaling so here are some ways to get your child started on theirs.
- Journaling is great for those who don’t feel comfortable opening up to others around them. Children tend to go through long phases where they can be quite introverted and bottle up both their thoughts and worries. Through journaling, they can create a safe and private space to release the stress on their mind. It can be a great way to document progress too. Once the pages of a journal have been filled up, your child can go back and look at the process of their growth and understanding. It is a great outlet for those going through difficult times as it is non-judgemental way of expressing oneself.
- It strengthens writing and communication skills. For long term academic success, like those in this prep school in Kent, it is essential to be able to clearly express yourself through your words. Poorly written answers in exams can actually be perceived as low performing and will affect a student long term. Continuous writing through journaling will ensure your child develops excellent communication and written skills which will be carried into their adulthood and is best taught from a young age.
- It helps you see things from a different perspective. It is easy to get caught up in the moment and make decisions based on how you feel at the time. Sometimes the decision can be beneficial but most of the time it is hasty and can lead to unnecessary stresses being added to the situation. Looking back at previous journal entries can help you make realistic assessments of former circumstances and see them from multiple angles. This a key skill is useful in life as it creates the ability to make rational decisions and skilled at negotiating which a child can take into their future workplace.