How to Motivate a Kid to Keep a Daily Journal

Kids learn the value of writing early in their lives, but they can lose the motivation to keep writing as they get older. Motivate your child to keep a daily journal until it becomes a good habit.

Instructions

1. Give your children's journals that are kid-friendly. Ask what the kids want in a journal. Blank journals without lines are great for younger kids who may not only want to write but draw. Drawing increases creativity and can eventually encourage writing.

2. Find writing prompts to motivate the kids to write. Some kids get discouraged because they don't know what to write. Search the Internet or library for books and websites on writing prompts for kids.

3. Write with the kids. Kids enjoy doing things adults do. If they see adults writing, it may motivate them to do the same.

4. Set up a reward system. Give free treat coupons for so many journal entries written. Design a reward calendar to give kids stickers when they complete a page in their journal.

5. Assure kids that their journal is private. Many kids, especially older kids who've become more private, get discouraged if they think others may read their private thoughts. Ensure kids by stating rules about journal privacy.

Tips & Warnings

• Use kids' writing prompts to make a journal jar. Cut up strips of paper that have the writing prompts on them. Fold them up and place them in a jar, basket or other container. Pull a writing prompt out when the kids need inspiration.