The Shared Diary

Here is what I wrote in the first couple pages of the diary when I did this. This will give you a description of the idea and some inspiration for what you will write! You will find a full explanation of the benefits of this exercise in your Week Four audio,

Dear my ………..

I have an idea and I’d like to know what you think of it.

I suggest that we name this notebook the [child’s name here] and Mama [or Daddy or whatever your child calls you] notebook.

Wait - what does this mean?

It means that it’s for our eyes only. You can write ANYTHING in this notebook and give it to me or put it under my pillow. Whatever you write in here is between us and you will never get in trouble for anything you tell me. We will figure everything out like a team. I love that you talk to me about your feelings and thoughts but sometimes there might be times when something is hard to say out loud, or you might be at school (if you’re not home, write on paper and then stick it in later). This notebook is YOUR PLACE whenever you feel like you need to feel a little more bit more

• heard

• understood

• supported

or when you are confused, angry, scared, lonely or anything else. Of course you can always come snuggle me and we can talk but this is just another option. No matter what (even if you’re upset with me!!) you’re never alone. I am on your team, always. Oh and by the way, when I find it I will write back and put it under your pillow - like a little private chat when you don’t feel like chatting or we are apart.

Love you so much,

Mama xx

P.S. Let’s practice: What do you think about this idea? Should we do it?

And under her pillow it went.