Written by: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Family Engagement Coordinator
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to help your child set goals that will set them up for success—whether in school, at home, or in their personal life. As parents, you play a key role in helping your child identify what they want to achieve and how they can get there. Setting goals teaches kids about responsibility, planning, and perseverance, but it’s important to make the process engaging and realistic.
Start with Small Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming for kids, so it’s helpful to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if your child wants to improve their grades, a good first step might be setting aside 15 minutes each night to review their classwork. Or if they’re interested in trying a new sport, start with an introductory class or practice at home. These small wins give your child a sense of accomplishment, which builds confidence and motivation.
Examples of "Small Wins":
Improving Homework Habits
Goal: Complete homework right after school for 15 minutes each day.
Smaller Steps:
1. Set a timer for 5 minutes and work on a small task (e.g., reading a few pages of a textbook or solving 3 math problems).
2. Take a 5-minute break to stretch or grab a snack.
3. Set another timer for 5 minutes to finish the remaining homework.
Reading Improvement
Goal: Read for 10 minutes each night before bed.
Smaller Steps:
1. Choose a short story or picture book that interests your child.
2. Read the first page together and discuss the pictures.
3. Let your child read a sentence or two out loud, with your help if needed.
4. Celebrate by asking them about their favorite part of the story.
Developing Social Skills
Goal: Practice saying “please” and “thank you” in different social situations.
Smaller Steps:
1. Role-play with your child different scenarios where they can use polite phrases, like asking for something or receiving a gift.
2. Practice saying “please” and “thank you” in front of a mirror or with you, using different tones and facial expressions.
3. In real-life situations (e.g., asking for a snack or when a family member does something kind for them), gently prompt your child to use these phrases.
4. Praise them each time they remember to say “please” or “thank you,” highlighting how it makes others feel appreciated.
Make It a Family Affair
Goal-setting doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Sit down as a family and discuss the goals each member would like to focus on in the new year. When kids see you setting your own goals, it models the importance of working toward something meaningful. You can work together to track progress and celebrate achievements, whether it’s a special dinner, a sticker chart, or simply acknowledging their hard work.
Be Supportive and Flexible
Remember that goal-setting isn’t about perfection. It’s about making progress, and there will be bumps along the way. Encourage your child to stick with it, even when things get tough. If a goal isn’t working out, it’s okay to reassess and adjust the plan. The most important part is staying supportive and showing them that it’s okay to keep trying, even after setbacks.
Celebrating progress, no matter how small, is key. Whether it’s recognizing improved study habits or the completion of a new project, reinforcing positive behavior motivates your child to continue moving forward. The new year is a fresh start, and by working together on goals, you’re teaching your child important life skills that will last a lifetime.
By setting and achieving goals together, you’re not only helping your child succeed but also strengthening your bond as a family. So, take the time to sit down, get inspired, and set those goals—it’s the perfect way to kick off a successful year!
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