Boundaries Journaling Prompts for Kids Under 10

Children are naturally intuitive about their comfort levels, but they're also taught to be polite, obedient, and accommodating. Sometimes these lessons conflict with their natural instincts about safety and comfort. Boundary education helps children learn that they can be kind AND protect themselves at the same time.

That’s why learning how to talk about personal space and comfort matters early on. These prompts are simple and can be written down with help from a grown-up. They’re not about getting things perfect—they’re about helping kids trust what they feel, and know that it’s okay to say “no.”

12 Boundaries Journaling Prompts Specifically for Kids Under 10

1. Draw a picture showing how close you like friends to stand when you're playing together.
2. Think about a time when you felt uncomfortable but weren't sure why. What did your body feel like?
3. Write about someone who always asks before giving you hugs or high-fives. How does that make you feel?
4. Draw a picture of yourself saying "no" to something you don't want to do. What would would it be?
5. Think about a game you don't like to play. How could you tell your friends you don't want to play it?
6. Write about your special things that you don't like other people to touch without asking.
7. Draw a picture of your family being kind to each other. What does that look like?
8. Write about what you do when you need some quiet time by yourself.
9. Think about family rules that help everyone feel safe and happy. What are your favorite rules?
10. Think about bedtime routines that make you feel safe and comfortable. What are they?
11. Draw different faces showing happy, sad, angry, and scared feelings. When do you feel each of these?
12. Think about different ways to tell someone how you're feeling. What words could you use?

Building Confidence and Self-Advocacy

Teaching boundary awareness to young children helps them develop the internal compass that will guide them throughout their lives, without making them suspicious or fearful. When children learn to trust their feelings and communicate their needs, they build the foundation for healthy relationships and self-advocacy skills.

Children who understand boundaries become adolescents and adults who can maintain healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and protect themselves from harmful situations. The investment in boundary education during these early years pays dividends throughout their entire lives.