Essential Supplies That Make Journaling More Fun and Creative for Kids

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Journaling as a Creative Outlet

The beauty of journaling is that the only thing needed to start is a writing instrument and a journal. But, taken a step further, journaling is also art. It is a form of expression with freedom to be creative and let the imagination run wild. With just a few supplies, you can transform the entire look and feel of any journal. Luckily, the supply options are endless and inexpensive. 

My son and I have been journaling since he was four and here are some of our favorite materials and supplies we use in our Home Sweet Homes Journal. 

6 Recommended Creative Journaling Supplies for Kids

The entire product list can be found on my Amazon storefont page. 

1. Ballpoint Pens
Standard ballpoints are great because they are waterproof! I learned the lesson the hard way after somehow we got a drop of water on one of our journal pages and the writing got totally washed out. To take preventive steps against any accidents, I'd recommend these BIC Ballpoint Pens which come in lots of assorted colors. 

2. Crayola SuperTip Markers
This Crayola SuperTip Marker set is amazing because of the wide variety of colors and it doesn’t bleed through the paper. As an FYI, I created the journal with thicker 120 gsm paper specifically to avoid this issue as this journal will become your child's treasured keepsake.

The one drawback of these markers was covered up above. If it comes in contact with water, it will fade/disappear and you'll no longer be able to read what was once there. We love these markers so much that I use them to write journal entries but make sure we steer clear of any liquid when doing so.

Crayons are incredible for journaling because they come in a ton of different colors and are extremely low-cost. Chances are you have these at home already but there have been some amazing innovations since I grew up in the 80's with pearl, glitter, and confetti crayons which is beyond exciting!

4. Pencils
Both regular and colored pencils are also must-have supplies when it comes to journaling. I find that half the time, my 6 year-old gravitates towards his favorite "fancy pencil" (it's one of those plastic ones that have multiple tips that you pull out to get a new sharp one). Having a favorite writing instrument just for journaling can actually help make the journaling process feel like a special ritual.

5. Stickers
This goes without saying but kids (and adults) love stickers. They make everything more fun, colorful and it's a great way to bring your own sense of style and personalization to your journal.  
>> Tip for use: Get some motivational/positive praise stickers and award them to your child when s/he has accomplished something. I know my son feels a sense of achievement and is proud to look at the stickers he's earned when he looks back on his journal.

You'll find great options at the dollar store and Amazon.

6. Washi tape 
In the blank pages, I like to create a scrapbook by printing out pictures from each month and securing it there. Of course, I want it to look cute, fun and colorful. Washi tape is perfect for the job. As a bonus, if you make a mistake you can easily reposition pictures tearing the journal paper. If you plan on using this tape for photos as well, I’d avoid the thin 5mm width tapes and go with anything 8mm or thicker. Here is a great starter Washi tape set I just purchased and love.

You'll find that these few supplies will go a long way as kids will find a way to be creative and make it their own. No matter how it looks, your child's writing and artwork will be preserved in their journal and treasured for years to come. 

Are there any other supplies you recommend? Drop a comment below and let me know! Happy Journaling!