Journaling
Writing that's private and free
In my class, we make books with beautiful covers of fancy, sometimes sparkly paper. Writing in these books feels special, like writing in any special book feels special. We do many things in our books, including journaling.
When we journal, I give a prompt and set kids free to write on it for 10-15 minutes. They can stay on topic, or wander off wherever their minds take them. It’s a style of writing sometimes called “freewriting.” We don’t worry about spelling or grammar. They don’t have to show it to me, though they can. They don’t have to share it out loud, though they can. Sometimes, when kids aren’t inspired, they draw, and I don’t usually bust them for it. Drawing is another way to let one’s thoughts spool out, which is a big part of what journaling is for. Journaling is also great practice just putting thoughts into written words, and writing things you feel ownership over, writing in your own voice. I also believe it’s important for kids to have space for writing that isn’t evaluated by adults, and journaling can be one of those spaces.
Natalie Goldberg (and others) have great books of prompts geared towards adults. I come up with my own, that I know will resonate with kids.
Some of our recent journaling prompts:
Tell us about a dog or cat (or other pet) you like. What are they like? What do you like about them? What do they do? If you don't like any pets, write about that.
Write about a memory you have of learning to read or write. What do you remember? Where were you? How did it feel? Who else was there? Your memory can be old, or recent.
Write about a favorite piece of clothing -- yours or someone else's. It could be something you wear all the time, or outgrew and miss, or know someone else loves. What is it like? Why is it a favorite? How does it feel to wear it? Do you feel like yourself or someone else? Does it help you in some way? Where did it come from?
I’ll share more over the year!
P.S. My Class
I think most of you know I run Frog Hollow School, a kids’ writing program. I teach classes for homeschoolers in the Seattle area (and online) as well as an online teen creative writing class. Frog Hollow also runs outdoor writing classes, including an after school class in South Seattle. Lots of writing, lots of fun!