Building Bonds Through Words: One Mom’s Case for a Shared Diary Between Her and Her Daughter

Experts Weigh In

Francyne Zeltser, the clinical director of mental health and testing services at Manhattan Psychology Group, highlights the benefits of shared journaling as “a great tool for communication.” She emphasizes that the diary provides a safe and secure way for children to communicate directly with their parents without fear of a negative reaction. It allows parents to consume information and react privately, which can be crucial in managing their responses effectively.

Zeltser also suggests that parents should establish a rule outlining how to initiate and hold an actual conversation if needed. This ensures that both parties know how to follow up on written entries in a safe, validating, and acceptable way. “I would build in a rule that outlines a contingency of how an actual conversation can be initiated and held,” she advises.

The Challenges and the Future

Hallett acknowledges that it can be difficult to keep some conversations confined to the written word. “Generally, from my understanding, ‘The bigger the kid, the bigger the problems,’” she notes, understanding that as children grow, so do their challenges. However, she believes that by setting the foundation now, she is preparing for the more complex conversations that will come during the teenage years.

Kristin Hallett’s shared diary with her daughter is more than just a communication tool; it is a testament to the power of words in building and maintaining strong, trusting relationships. This simple practice has brought them closer and has provided a meaningful way to navigate the complexities of parent-child communication. As Hallett continues to nurture this tradition, she is not only enriching her own family’s dynamics but also inspiring countless others to do the same.

For parents looking to strengthen their bond with their children and foster open communication, a shared diary might just be the perfect start. As Hallett beautifully puts it, “I highly recommend it. So happy Dadurday, everyone.”


Staff Writer
Staff Writer
ForEveryMom staff contributed to this article.

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