One of the hardest parts of parenting as our kiddos get older can be finding ways to communicate with them. As much as we're open and honest with our kids, and as much as we encourage them to be the same with us, it can still be really hard for them to come to us and talk about stuff that makes them uncomfortable. This can also apply to younger kids, who might not be able to accurately or effectively convey their thoughts and emotions in conversation! But it's so important that our kids know that we are here for them, and that they can talk to us about anything.

So as parents, we may need to get creative and think outside the box when it comes to keeping those lines of communication open. Lots of people use journaling as a way to express their thoughts and feelings and work through them. We love the idea of employing a conversation journal with our kids, for those times they need to talk but a face-to-face conversation makes them uncomfortable or would be hard to initiate. It can be so much easier for people to communicate through written words, especially for people who have an introverted personality.

Not only can conversation journals act as a wonderful communication tool between parents, they can be a source of support, inspiration, and guidance as our kids get older and branch out on their own. They can refer back to the journals and specific instances for advice on how to handle something similar, or even how to handle the same situation with their own kids. Conversation journals can be hard copies of all the advice and love we've given our kids over the years, and serve as a reminder to them that they can work through anything and that we'll always be there to support them, no matter what.

If you think a conversation journal could be helpful when communicating with your own kids, there's no better time than the present to start one! If you notice your kiddo has a hard time with verbal communication, or doesn't seem comfortable opening up about certain things face-to-face, talk to them about starting a private conversation journal between the two of you.

Writing down their thoughts, feelings, concerns, or fears can be so beneficial and helpful, and keeps those lines of communication open and you in the loop.

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