How to create a shared journal that brings you closer to your kids
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One of my favorite moments at bedtime is when my son and I sit down with our shared journal.
Some nights, we write about our day. Other nights, he draws silly doodles or leaves me little notes that make me smile. It’s our special way of staying close, even on the busiest days.
A shared journal is one of the most powerful ways to connect with your kids, and it’s so easy to create!
It helps you record precious memories, start meaningful conversations, and strengthen your bond in just a few minutes a day.
After trying several journals with my son, the one that quickly became our favorite was a simple notebook we customized ourselves.
Using a blank notebook instead of a pre-made guided journal made a big difference because we could add different things each day — drawings, notes, milestones, funny quotes, and more.
Writing in the journal together has become a habit we both love, and it has deepened our relationship in ways I never expected.
This is why, for this month’s special project, I want to encourage you to create a shared journal with your kids!
The journal is not only a lovely way to connect at the end of the day, but also a keepsake that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Here is what you’ll need:
- a notebook (we love using a dotted grid journal because it makes writing and drawing easy)
- pieces of paper for drawings
- stickers, colored pens, washi tape (to make your journal more fun and personal).
How to create the shared journal
- Design the cover together – Invite your kids to create a label for your journal and stick it on the cover. Make it personal and fun!
- On the first page, place a label that says “This journal belongs to…” and fill it in together.
- Prepare a pocket for prompts – Print these conversation ideas and store them in your journal. If your notebook doesn’t have a pocket in the back, glue an envelope inside the cover to keep them handy.
Tip: If you have multiple children, consider creating a separate journal for each child so they can share their thoughts privately.

How to use the shared journal with your kids
Set a Regular Time – Choose a time to write in the journal together each day, like after dinner or before bedtime.
For Siblings – If you have more than one child, let them take turns on different days. Older kids might appreciate privacy, so you might want to do this after younger siblings are asleep.
Here are a few things you can include in your journal:
- Daily Highlights: Ask your child what they want to remember about their day and write it down.
- Special Moments: Record milestones or sweet gestures, like a kind note they wrote or a new skill they learned.
- Conversation Starters: Use the prompts in your pocket to spark meaningful discussions and write down both of your answers.
- Messages & Drawings: Encourage your child to add their own messages or doodles.
Helpful tip: For drawings, we use separate sheets of paper and glue them into the journal. This keeps the pages neat and makes the artwork stand out.
For older kids, a shared journal can also become a space to exchange letters. This makes it easier for them to open up, ask questions, or share feelings they might not say out loud.

A simple way to build lasting memories
Starting a shared journal is such a small effort, but it creates big moments of connection.
Years from now, you’ll look back at these pages and be so grateful you took the time to capture these little glimpses of your child’s thoughts, dreams, and personality.
I hope you and your kids enjoy this special tradition as much as we do!
Have you ever tried a shared journal with your kids? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your experience!

Want more simple ways to connect with your kids?
The Playful Moments Together guide is filled with easy, creative ideas that will bring you closer to your kids and make your days a little easier and a lot more fun.