Journaling isn't just a personal activity; it can also be a powerful tool for parents to model healthy behavior for their kids.

It’s no secret that modeling a healthy lifestyle is important not only for ourselves, but for the kids in our lives that look up to us. By watching how we behave even from the youngest of ages, our kids take note of how to react in similar situations. This applies from eating to exercise, affection to self-love. 

Journaling has long been a go-to for mental health benefits. The New York Times reported “the obvious benefits, like a boost in mindfulness, memory and communication skills. But studies have also found that writing in a journal can lead to better sleep, a stronger immune system, more self-confidence and a higher I.Q.”

NPR has collected studies on gratitude journaling indicating that “giving thanks and counting blessings can help people sleep better, lower stress and improve interpersonal relationships.”

Similarly, taking the time to journal your family’s stories has benefits. NPR's Ailsa Chang spoke with Wall Street Journal columnist Sue Shellenbarger about her column, "The Secret Benefits of Retelling Family Stories.” 

“Children actually acquire a sense of identity from hearing family stories. They learn about their past, people who came before them. If parents describe their emotions when they tell stories, the kids learn about regulating their own emotions and giving them names. And the examples in the stories can even service antidotes for some of the pressures kids face today.”

There’s a benefit with every entry in your Qeepsake journal. Make an entry here or start a Qeepsake membership here.