Parents often tell me that getting children to talk about their concerns is difficult. Some parents have found great success in using this idea.

Invite the child to decorate a small box, no bigger that a shoe box even smaller is a good idea. Ask them to decorate it in a way that expresses themselves. The child keeps the box in a special place in their room. When they feel they want to talk about a problem, suggest they write the problem down on paper and leave it in the box. At night, just before bed, when parents tuck them in ready to say goodnight, ask them would they like to discuss the content of the box.

Many children enjoy the mystery and privacy of such an activity. A parent can only read the content when invited. This seems to work well for all ages in a primary setting. Younger children might just draw pictures.