10 Best Journals For Kids 2025 in the United States

The OIHEW 2-Pack DIY Journal Kit for Girls aged 8-12 is a comprehensive and creative set that includes a variety of items to enhance journaling and scrapbooking experiences. This kit comes with two spiral notebooks, numerous stickers, glitter pens, highlighters, and other accessories packaged neatly in a hard gift box, making it an ideal gift for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.

The sturdy bindings and smooth paper quality of the notebooks make them suitable for both writing and drawing, allowing kids to express their creativity freely. The included decorative items such as glitter tape, stamps, and love paper clips add a fun, personalized touch to each page, which can be particularly engaging for children in this age group.

The kit is designed to support cognitive development and creativity, providing a fun and educational activity that encourages self-expression. However, some potential drawbacks include the relatively high price point due to the numerous components, and the possibility that younger children might find it overwhelming without adult supervision. Additionally, while the hard gift box is attractive, its large size may make it less portable. This journal kit is an excellent choice for girls who enjoy crafting and personalizing their work, offering both entertainment and developmental benefits.

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 Harry Potter Secret Diary is a charming and magical option for kids who enjoy writing and expressing their creativity. Its notable features include a lock for privacy, an invisible ink pen for secret messages, and a built-in light to reveal those messages, which adds an element of fun and intrigue. The diary is designed with beautiful illustrations that resonate with young Harry Potter fans, making it appealing for both boys and girls. The lined pages provide ample space for writing and drawing, encouraging children to explore their thoughts and feelings while enhancing their writing skills.

In terms of durability, the hardback cover seems sturdy enough to withstand daily use, which is a plus for energetic kids. The diary is lightweight, making it easy for little hands to carry around, and it’s recommended for children aged three and up, catering to a broad age range.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The diary requires batteries for the light feature, which may need replacing after some time. Additionally, while the invisible ink pen is fun, it can be a novelty that wears off, potentially reducing the long-term engagement with the diary. Parents should also be aware that the lock, while adding a sense of privacy, might not be the most secure, and younger children might find it challenging to operate.