Resilience Journaling Prompts for Kids Under 10

When kids are upset, nervous, or unsure, it doesn’t always come out in clear sentences. It might show up as silence, tears, or even in how tightly they grip your hand. That’s where these prompts can help—not to fix them, but to give them space. Safe space. Private space. Somewhere quiet to draw or write what’s going on inside.

If you care for a child, you already know how deeply they feel the world around them. They might not say “I’m overwhelmed,” but they might sketch a storm cloud or scribble hard with a red crayon. That’s still communication. That still counts.

10 Resilience Journaling Prompts for Kids Under 10

Each one is written to be understood by a young child—and open enough to meet them wherever they’re at emotionally.

1. Draw a picture of something that made you feel brave.
   It could be going to the dentist, speaking up in class, or trying broccoli again. Let the drawing do the talking.

2. If today had a color, what would it be? Why?
   Colors can hold moods when words don’t come easily. This helps kids connect their feelings with something visual.

3. What’s something you did even though you were nervous?
   Confidence builds quietly. This prompt helps children notice their own inner strength, even in small ways.

4. Who helped you feel better this week? Draw or write about them.
   This gives space for gratitude and reminds them that they are never completely alone.

5. If you had a “feelings backpack,” what would be inside today?
   Let them name or draw the feelings they’re carrying. The idea of putting things down can feel comforting.

6. Write or draw about a time something didn’t go your way—but you kept going.
   This builds awareness of how they’ve already handled hard moments, even if they didn’t realize it.

7. Make a “You Did It!” list for this week (big or small things).
   Brushing teeth, sharing toys, or finishing a puzzle—all count. This prompt shifts focus to what worked.

8. If your worry had a shape or creature, what would it look like?
   This one helps kids separate their feelings from who they are. Plus, turning worry into a creature makes it a little less scary.

9. Draw your “calm place.” What do you see, hear, or feel there?
   This lets kids imagine peace in a way that feels real to them—and they can return to it anytime on the page.

10. What is one thing you’re proud of today?
    Even if it’s “I got out of bed,” that matters. This prompt gently reminds them that progress is quiet but real.

Why This Matters

Children don’t always talk in ways adults expect—but they process just as deeply. These prompts don’t ask kids to be anyone other than who they already are. They simply invite them to reflect, express, and remember that even on tough days, they have small wins, quiet courage, and a story worth noticing.