Talking with children about resolutions is a simple way to nurture qualities like responsibilities, resilience and kindness within your child, helping them to understand goal-setting in a fun age-appropriate way.
Resolutions are promises that describe something one wishes to try or do better. Framing these as fun goals or adventures makes them exciting rather than overwhelming for children.
Choosing age-appropriate goals
Sticking to one or two resolutions supports children in feeling confident and not pressured. Here are some guides:
- Children aged 3-7: focus on a goal around an already established routine like brushing teeth or tidying
- Children aged 8+: Encourage personal growth with goals like trying a new hobby, adding a new task to the routine to help at home or trying something new at school this year
In creating meaningful yet simple goals, children can feel empowered and motivated to work towards something achievable in the short term.
Break goals into small steps
Children thrive when goals feel achievable. When these goals relate to daily routines, they become manageable and easier to approach. For example, instead of “I’ll always keep my room clean,” try “I’ll put away my toys before bed.”
You can support your child by helping to visualise the task through the use of sticker charts and celebrating each win.
Parents as role models
Children learn through observing those around them – by sharing your resolution goals like reading more books, it shows children that goals are for everyone. This shares the learnings around resilience and emphasises how resolutions are about progress not perfection. Together children can work towards their goals with the nurturing guidance of their parents and carers.
Reflection and Flexibility
Encourage children to reflect on their goals and progress. Remind them that it is okay to restart when they forget, to adjust their goals or to simply change. Celebrate is effort as equal achievements. Every small step children take towards their goals helps them grow into confident, caring individuals which is worth celebrating all year long.
By keeping goals simple, positive, and connected to values, parents can help children build lifelong skills while enjoying the excitement of a fresh start.
