Many people start each year by making New Year\u2019s resolutions. As adults, we often resolve to do something on January 1, and then feel we\u2019ve failed if we don\u2019t follow through as the year progresses. Resolutions are a wonderful idea at any age, although, if adults have difficulty keeping them, children may find resolutions even more troublesome. How can parents introduce children to the idea of New Year\u2019s resolutions, without pressuring them or setting them up for failure?<\/p>\n
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It\u2019s a good idea for families to sit down together beforehand and create some guidelines so that resolutions are realistic. Parents should take the lead, setting an example for younger family members. Here are some strategies that can help everyone keep their New Year\u2019s resolutions:<\/p>\n
Make a resolution with your child, for example, \u201cWe\u2019re only going to have dessert three days a week,\u201d or \u201cWe\u2019re going to spend one hour per night with no electronics.\u201d Find a goal which benefits both parent and child, and which is easier to achieve by working together.<\/p>\n
Start with broad categories like, home, school, friends, or family, and then narrow down ideas. Be sure what your children choose to do is achievable and is important to them. If your child is a C student, becoming an A student may be too big a challenge; suggest they work on getting B\u2019s as a more achievable goal.<\/p>\n
Families can get together every month to discuss their progress on resolutions. If goals are not being met, family members can offer their support and suggest alternate strategies. Sometimes, it\u2019s easier for children to keep resolutions if they feel it\u2019s a team effort. If they\u2019re having trouble keeping resolutions, don\u2019t be accusatory or preachy. Let your child know that every day is a clean slate and a chance to start anew.<\/p>\n
One or two resolutions are enough. Have your child pick the ideas they feel are most important. Be certain that the resolutions aren\u2019t too vague or general. \u201cI\u2019m going to help more around the house,\u201d may be too broad; \u201cI\u2019m going to clear the table after dinner,\u201d is specific, manageable, focused, and easier to carry out.<\/p>\n
By learning to make and keep New Year\u2019s resolutions at a young age, children will be more inclined to carry the tradition into adulthood, and setting thoughtful and strategic annual goals is a valuable skill that can lead to success at any age.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"