Writing New Year’s resolutions can be a fun way to help children understand the importance of setting goals. Children like to think about the things they want to do in the future. As parents, we can help them to focus their energy on goals they set for themselves. Set aside some time to sit down with your child and think about New Year’s resolutions. Don’t forget to bring a pen and paper, and go through the steps below to help your children write their New Year’s goals.
- Brainstorm all the possible ideas. For example: Are there any areas your child needs to work on at school? Does your child want to try a new sport or get better at one they currently participate in? Is there room for improvement in anything at home, such as behavior or habits?
- Guide your child child as they set realistic goals. Help your child narrow down their ideas to something as specific and realistically attainable as possible. Don’t set impossible goals – that will only bring frustration and disappointment.
- Write the goals down and then hang them up where they will be seen regularly. Post goals on the bathroom mirror, refrigerator, bulletin board, or other place your child frequently visits to serve as a reminder of the goals they set for themselves.
- Encourage your child and celebrate accomplishments. Don’t forget to notice positive things your child does along the way and be sure to recognize when your child has achieved a goal.
Earn Bonus Points This Year: Set a family New Year’s Resolution. You could resolve to plant a garden this summer, recycle, or to devote one evening per week to a family activity. Support each other as you work towards your goals!
Do you set New Year’s resolutions with your children and/or family? Leave your ideas and any helpful tips you have in the comments.
Ali says
This is a great post. I’m still reeling from Christmas and haven’t even begun to think about working on this with myself–let alone my kids. Thanks for helping me get in the spirit! Cute blog by the way.
NYOA says
Great tips! I’m not sure my kids are old enough yet, but maybe I’ll try to get them to do it. I’m following the Mom Exemption movement by Kathy at Mydishwasherspossessed.com lol!
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Winelady Cooks says
This is such great information. I’m going to do this with my grandsons. Who knows, it just might work.
Thanks so much for sharing and Happy New Year!
Joanne
Amber--JadeLouise Designs says
What a great list! I love it! I may have to use this to write my OWN resolution.
We’ve never really done new years resolutions with the kids before, but I think it would be great to start. both of my boys could really use the lesson of setting a goal and learning to work towards it.
Thanks for the great ideas!
Tara says
Great tips, perfect timing! We will be implementing goal setting for our kids this year. We’ve always had goals, but this year they will actually make their own “new years resolutions.” Happy New Year Nicole!!
Kristina says
I really like the idea of a family resolution that involves an activity together – planting a garden is a great idea (which everyone can be involved in).
Thanks for sharing,
Kristina
Rosann says
Great post with valuable information! 🙂 We avoid new years resolutions and instead refer to them as Family Goal Planning. We just happen to do it in the week leading up to New Years and we write it all down, then discuss it and exchange lists so we can encourage one another throughout the year. This year is the first year we’ll be including our children in the goal planning. I wrote about this on my blog yesterday. 🙂
~Sweet blessings and wishing you a Happy New Year!
Rosann
Miriam says
That is so interesting! My kids are 5 and under and I would like to start this with them.