January is almost over. Have you forgotten about all of your New Year’s Resolutions? Now is the time to set up new goals and get a fresh start. If your initials goals were too overwhelming and you’ve lost enthusiasm for them, figure out what is most important for your family and set priorities. Discuss with the family achievable tasks that can be done weekly in order to reach the bigger goal. Then, keep each other accountable, we all have room for improvement. Display the goals in the house as a reminder and to keep everyone motivated.
Get the whole family involved and encourage children to write down ways to be healthier throughout the year, for instance, eat more fruits and vegetables each day, exercise daily, or to always wear a helmet when they ride their bike. Another type of resolution could be about responsibility. Children can take on more responsibility for the New Year, for example, younger children can be given the task of feeding the pet twice a day or picking up their toys every time they play. Older children can be given the responsibility to obey a curfew, or help their parents prepare a healthy dinner. They could also start learning to be financially responsible by saving their allowance in a piggy bank. This will help them develop money management skills or even donate their money to a cause they really care for.
Other Ideas
Community service: Look for volunteering opportunities, cleaning up a park or beach, visiting an animal shelter, or tutoring younger children.
Social: Set goals to make new friends and reach out to new kids at school. Also, be a positive example of how to treat people and discourage bullying. This will improve their social skills and relations. Plan to join at least one club or organization.
Educational goals: We always want to encourage our children to strive for success in school. Help kids to set reasonable goals that they feel good about. For example, finishing homework on time, ask questions in class when they do not understand the subject, develop a study schedule so they do not fall behind in school or read at least one new book each week.
Leave us a comment below about what your goals (big or small) are for this year.