Try Writing a ‘Play Diary’ Together

Writing a “play diary” with your child is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen family bonds, boost your child’s language skills, and help them reflect on their day.
Research shows that when children are encouraged to talk or write about their daily activities, they develop stronger narrative abilities and emotional awareness (O’Connell & Gerard, 2022).

🧸 Why a Play Diary Matters

A play diary is more than just jotting down what happened.
It becomes a moment of shared storytelling.
Your child learns to express themselves, recall events, and even recognize their own feelings about what they enjoyed or didn’t enjoy during playtime.
One study found that children who regularly keep diaries show improved literacy skills and a deeper sense of self-awareness (King & La Paro, 2019).

✍️ How to Start a Play Diary

• Pick a notebook together—make it special!

• Sit down for 5-10 minutes each evening.

• Let your child draw or write freely.

• Ask open-ended questions: “What was your favorite part of play today?”

• Celebrate the little details—they help build confidence.

Make It a Family Ritual

Turning this into a daily habit can create a safe space for your child to share their thoughts.
Parents, too, gain insights into their child’s evolving interests and emotions.
Over time, the diary becomes a treasured keepsake of childhood memories.

📚 References

• O’Connell, T., & Gerard, P. (2022). Narrative Skills and Child Development: The Role of Reflective Practices. Journal of Early Childhood Literacy.

• King, B., & La Paro, K. (2019). Everyday Writing: Supporting Literacy Through Daily Diaries. Early Childhood Research Quarterly.