After many failed attempts at resolutions, grown-ups may think it futile to introduce New Year's Resolutions for Kids. But, experts teach us just how to navigate goal-setting for the upcoming year. Read on for advice from education and health experts on helping children improve in the coming year.
First Step: Let Children Identify an Opportunity for Growth
Just as we do not like being told what we need to fix about ourselves, so do children. Education expert Jennifer Brinker stressed the importance of letting children come up with their goals themselves, 13 WTHR reported. The parents' role would be to help them brainstorm, even through sharing their own goals for inspiration.
Next, Write and Post New Year's Resolutions for Kids
So as not to forget those goals, encourage the child to write them down. Then, do not just shove it along with other papers. Make the written goals visible by placing them in a high-traffic area. Also, create a "goal ladder" or an action plan that is time-limited.
Get Ready for Lapses
Adults know how we can easily fall off the bandwagon midway through our resolutions. It is vital, then, to prepare your children for the inevitable. Tell the child about the possibilities of getting discouraged. To prevent completely giving up on their goals, identify missteps ahead of time. Make a plan on how to avoid or overcome these lapses.
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Gradual Progress, Celebrate Small Wins
When children feel defeated when it comes to reaching their goals, it is important that parents are there to give them a morale boost. Encourage them by asking: "Are you better today than you were yesterday?" Parents can help kids see their progress, no matter how small, as long as it is consistent. Celebrate all success along the journey; be it big or small.
When Kids Make Goals too High
When asked how parents should deal with children who set lofty goals for themselves, Brinker highlighted the growth mindset versus the fixed mindset. Remind them: "You are not there yet, but there are a lot of little steps to get you in the right direction," Brinker advised parents.
Set Age-Specific Goals
Small children may not understand New Year's resolutions as changing themselves. But, they can set goals and follow through. Experts advise that above 7 years of age, children can make a realistic resolution, Moms revealed.
Younger children can have simpler resolutions like cleaning up their playroom and brushing their teeth every day.
Model Goal-setting as a Parent
Dr. Benjamin Siegel, pediatrics professor at Boston University School, advised parents to make goal-setting with their children a family activity. Highlight New Year's resolutions as something people do to improve themselves. It is easy for kids to eat healthily and exercise when their parents adopt the same lifestyle.
Also include making family resolutions like reading a book together, board games, or walks. This could be very encouraging to children. Show them results-how it is possible to achieve those goals and what it feels like.
Indira Abraham-Pratt, Ph.D., a clinical health psychologist, revealed that teamwork and support are fostered when resolutions involve the entire family. Following through with New Year's Resolutions as a team also helps adults be more accountable. With that, check-in every fortnight or month to find out what your child is struggling with and find progress to celebrate about.
