A few years ago, I began a small but meaningful tradition in our family: I bought each of my children a notebook. They were identical in design but distinct in color — a bit like the color-coded notebooks from The Boxcar Children series, which held a special place in my childhood memories. The intent was simple: to create a safe space for my children to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns on paper.
As they entered their preteen and adolescent years, I found that sometimes it’s easier for them to write things down than to express them face-to-face. These notebooks have become a bridge between us — a subtle way to stay connected, even when verbal communication feels challenging.
There’s no set routine. Occasionally, I’ll walk into our bedroom and find a notebook on the bed with a brief entry — sometimes just a few sentences, other times a full page. On rare occasions, I might find two or even three notebooks waiting for me. I take a moment to read their words, reflect on them, and then write my response. When I’m finished, I gently return the notebook to its rightful place on their bed. It’s a quiet, reassuring ritual that has grown into something I truly cherish.
These colorful notebooks have become a meaningful part of my daily life. They offer me comfort, knowing that I’m staying connected with my children in a way that allows them to be seen and heard. In return, they’re given a safe space to share their thoughts without fear of judgment — a space that’s just for them.
“Writing provides children with a safe space to explore their emotions, develop better communication skills, and learn to express themselves without pressure. It gives them a tool for self-reflection and a way to process their thoughts at their own pace.”
– Dr. Emily Foster, Child Development Specialist
With love,
Whitney
