{"id":8283,"date":"2026-01-20T08:51:33","date_gmt":"2026-01-20T15:51:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lpatucson.org\/south\/?p=8283"},"modified":"2026-01-20T08:51:33","modified_gmt":"2026-01-20T15:51:33","slug":"helping-kids-make-new-years-resolutions-that-will-last","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lpatucson.org\/south\/helping-kids-make-new-years-resolutions-that-will-last\/","title":{"rendered":"Helping Kids Make New Year\u2019s Resolutions That Will Last"},"content":{"rendered":"

In January of each year, many people make New Year\u2019s resolutions, often feeling defeated if they don\u2019t follow through. While resolutions are great at any age, children find them more daunting. How can parents introduce children to New Year\u2019s resolutions without pressuring them or setting them up for failure?<\/span><\/p>\n

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Families benefit from sitting together before making resolutions and establishing realistic guidelines. Parents should lead by example. Here are some strategies to help everyone keep their New Year\u2019s resolutions.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Parents Can Partner with Children<\/b><\/p>\n

Serve as a role model by making resolutions with your child. For instance, you could say, \u201cWe\u2019ll only have dessert three days a week\u201d or \u201cWe\u2019ll spend one hour each night with our phones shut off.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Family resolutions could include volunteering at a charity or spending a day outdoors each month. One or two parent\/child resolutions are enough. Focus on goals that benefit both parents and children and are easier to achieve when working together.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Help Children Set Realistic Goals<\/b><\/p>\n

Begin with broad categories like home, school, friends, or family, then narrow those ideas down. Ensure your child\u2019s chosen activity is achievable and meaningful. If they\u2019re a C student, becoming an A student may be too challenging; suggest they aim for a B average as a more attainable goal.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stay Positive and Regularly Discuss Children\u2019s Progress<\/b><\/p>\n

Maintain a positive attitude and regularly discuss your children\u2019s progress. Celebrate their achievements and provide support when they encounter challenges. By doing so, you can help them stay motivated and committed to their resolutions.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Families can gather monthly to discuss their progress on resolutions. If goals aren\u2019t being met, family members can offer support and suggest alternative strategies. Children may find it easier to keep resolutions if they feel it\u2019s a team effort. If they\u2019re struggling, avoid being accusatory or preachy. Instead, let them know that every day is a fresh start.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep the List Short and Focused<\/b><\/p>\n

One or two resolutions are usually sufficient. Have your child select the most important ones. Avoid vague or general resolutions. For instance, \u201cI\u2019m going to help more around the house\u201d is too broad, while \u201cI\u2019m going to clear the table after dinner\u201d is specific, manageable, focused, and easier to accomplish.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Johns Hopkins<\/span><\/a> provides some realistic and achievable resolutions for kids and families that can guide parents, including:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For kids:<\/b><\/p>\n