We can say with confidence that everyone has a lot of emotions about being quarantined. Some days we can find the small joys in walking outside, while other days the unknown can be overwhelming. However, we are experiencing history in the making and we should journal about it!

Help your kids pick out (or rummage through the house to find) a fun journal, pencils, crayons, and/or paper! Parents you can journal, too! Not only can journaling open a window into your child’s view of the world, but you can incorporate some language-based activities while you’re at it! You and your child can pick your own kind of journaling style (i.e. drawing, writing, a mix of the two). Have fun!

Speech and Language Connections

Executive function - try to organize any thoughts and ideas into a graphic organizer. Let your child plan what materials to use and what style journal they’d like.

Expressive language - use language to describe pictures, discuss events, and write about life at home. You can incorporate as much or as little detail as you want. What was the weather like? What games or activities did you do today? Incorporate social language by talking about feelings, emotions, and how to manage them! This is new territory for everyone, kids included, so let them be honest and open about their feelings. Journaling can be cathartic for children and adults alike.

Writing - do your best to use good spelling, writing mechanics, and sentences. Have your child re-read their sentences and make any edits that may be needed. Be careful with this one, because you want it to be fun. If you and your family members feel comfortable, you can take turns reading your journals as a group.