August 13, 2021
top trending topics
tips & tricks for growth
journaling/writing prompts for kids
Journaling isn’t just for school. It can help your kids in a variety of personal ways that can also help you as a parent tune into your kids. While we all thought COVID would be gone by now, it’s not. Sometimes your kids will be willing to share their thoughts with you, but they will often put something into writing that they might not say to you.
Let’s be honest — even with school and everything else that’s going on, your kids probably need some constructive things to do. Journaling can fire their imagination, improve their writing skills, and cultivate self-awareness. Plus it can be fun and give you something to start a conversation! Make it part of their daily routine — maybe the first thing they do after breakfast or the last thing they do before bed.
So, take a look around the house — is there an empty composition book or notebook you can put together? Kids love their electronic devices, but I would only use them as an absolute last resort. You can make up the topics, but try to make them as open-ended as possible or add a “Why?” at the end. Of course, keep topics appropriate for your child’s age and interests. Below are a bunch of journal topic suggestions to get you thinking!
But to review just a few of the benefits of journaling for your child…
Journaling can:
- Clarify their thoughts and feelings
- Help them know themselves better
- Reduce their stress
- Give you insight into how they are dealing with our current situation.
how to find a counselor for your child
Imagine being an 8-year-old and dealing with all the stuff they are dealing with today. As a parent, you can see something’s just off with your child. Maybe your kid’s teacher, guidance counselor, or some other adult in their life has noticed it. And now you’ve decided to take the brave step of finding a counselor for your child. Because you care so much, not just any counselor or therapist will do: you want to find a good one.
Here are some tips on finding a good counselor:
Don’t be shy to ask your network of people you know.
Ask your child’s pediatrician and talk to the school guidance counselor. Mention it to church youth workers. Definitely ask your friends. You may find out that more people have experience with child counselors than you thought.
Figure out all the letters.
MD, Ph.D., LMFT, LCSW, MSW, LPC. You’ve heard the terms psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, family counselors, therapists, etc. Your pediatrician can help you choose what your child needs. That’s a great place to start.
Gather your thoughts and be specific.
Whether someone recommended counseling or you’ve decided to go this route on your own, take some time to write down your concerns about your child and any potential triggers.
Research.
Ask around about counselors. Get on the internet and read their credentials, articles, or blogs they may have written. Check out their social media accounts.
Interview Potential Counselors One-On-One.
Good counselors should be used to being vetted to determine if they’re the best fit. You can do this in person or by phone, and maybe even through Zoom. If they are resistant and try to rush you to an appointment, move on to another counselor.
Remember, you’re the best person to find a good match for your child’s needs!
Q: Which country consumes the most chocolate per capita?
what we’re lovin’
This week’s picks come from Tamara Slocum, our Creative Strategist. She’s been married to her college sweetheart, Bobby, since 2012 and together they have 3 amazing girls (5 yrs old and under!) Whew. 😅 She’s got her hands full and still took the time to give her recommendations because they are just THAT GOOD. Check ’em out:
📲 @biglifejournal on Instagram has fun, engaging resources to help your kids develop a resilient growth mindset. In fact, every Friday they have a new FREE printable for ages 4+!
✨ Generation Mindful’s Time-In Toolkit™ is my ultimate favorite! Create a Calming Corner in your home where you can help teach your kids (0-5yrs) to name, feel, and heal their big emotions through play and effective calming strategies!
📗 Parenting Right From the Start by Dr. Vanessa LaPointe is hands-down the BEST parenting book I’ve ever read. Using the latest neuroscience of child development, she explains how to build a strong connection with your child and how it ultimately helps them regulate their emotions, master social skills, and develop a sense of identity.
share the love
Know a friend who would love reading all the relationship goodness we’ve packed in here? Go ahead and share it with them!
Answer: Switzerland
(Okay, we’re definitely moving there. Where are our chocolate lovers at???👋)