10 Best Journals For Kids 2026 in the United States

The Big Life Journal - Second Edition is designed to instill a growth mindset in children aged 7 to 10 through guided activities and prompts. One of its major strengths is its focus on positive psychology, which encourages kids to see challenges as opportunities for growth. This can be particularly beneficial for children as it helps build their confidence and resilience at a young age. The interactive element allows kids to engage with a journal buddy, fostering connections and meaningful conversations, which adds a valuable social component to their journaling experience.

The design and theme of the journal are appealing, featuring a durable hardcover that promises longevity, making it a lovely keepsake for children as they grow. The high-quality paper is another plus, ensuring that kids can express themselves freely without worrying about bleed-through. Additionally, the inclusion of a podcast enhances the experience by providing an auditory learning opportunity, adding variety to how children engage with the content.

On the flip side, while the prompts and structure are well thought out, some children may prefer a more open-ended approach to journaling without specific guidance. For those who thrive on creativity and free expression, the structured prompts might feel limiting. Furthermore, the journal is geared towards a specific age range, meaning older or younger children might not find it as engaging. Lastly, the price point may be higher than other journals aimed at kids, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious families.

The One Question a Day Journal for Kids offers a manageable size of about 7.5 by 9.25 inches, making it easy to fit into a child's backpack or desk space without being bulky. With 144 pages and a slim thickness, it is light and easy for young children aged 6 to 9 years to handle. This journal is designed for early elementary kids (grades 2-3) and features a unique daily prompt format—one question each day—which encourages consistent reflection and writing without overwhelming the child.

The structure is simple yet effective, promoting gradual journaling habits with engaging, age-appropriate questions focused on self-exploration under the theme “All about Me.” Durability is suitable for home or gentle school use but may not endure heavy travel or rough handling. This journal is a good fit for parents seeking an easy, low-pressure way to encourage daily writing and self-expression in young children, especially those ready for a bit of daily thinking and writing practice.

The HappyMe Gratitude Journal for Kids is designed to help children aged 6-12 develop a positive mindset and express their thoughts and feelings through daily writing prompts. Its compact size, 8.27 x 5.91 inches, makes it portable and easy for kids to handle. With 180 ruled pages, it provides ample space for daily entries.

The journal's bright yellow cover is visually appealing and engaging for children, promoting a cheerful and inviting look. The design and theme focus on gratitude, mindfulness, and kindness, which are excellent for fostering a growth mindset and self-awareness in kids. Daily prompts are structured to guide children through reflecting on their day, which can help reduce screen time and encourage mindfulness.

The journal is non-dated, allowing flexibility for the child to write at their own pace. This journal is best suited for children who enjoy writing and parents looking to instill positive habits and mindfulness practices in a fun and structured manner.