The start of a new year is a great time to help your children focus on forming good habits.
Families can sit down together and pick a few things each person would like to do as New Year’s resolutions. If the thought of “resolutions” sounds overwhelming, encourage kids to think of them as goals — and make it fun.
“As a pediatrician and mom of three kids, I know how important it is to set healthy goals with kids — and to be realistic about those goals,” says pediatrician Lanre Falusi. “Kids also love having something to work toward and to have fun keeping track on sticker charts or getting praise or rewards as they reach these goals, depending on their age.”
For example, if an 8-year-old meets a goal of reading every day for a week, perhaps he gets to pick the family movie during the weekend, Falusi suggests. Maybe your preschooler agrees to eat more vegetables by drinking them in smoothies, which she and the whole family can enjoy.
Below are some healthy and positive goal-setting ideas to suggest for children, depending on their age.
Preschoolers
• I will try hard to clean up my toys by putting them where they belong.
• I will let my parents help me brush my teeth twice a day.
• I will wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.
• I will try new foods when I can, especially all different colors of vegetables.
• I will learn how to help clear the table when I am done eating.
• I will be friendly to all animals. I will learn how to ask the owners if I can pet their animal first.
• I will always hold a grown-up’s hand whenever I cross the street.
• I will do my best to be nice to other kids who need a friend or look sad or lonely.
• I will talk with my parent or another adult I trust when I need help or am scared.
Kids, 5 to 12 years old
• I will drink water every day. I will keep soda and fruit drinks only for special times.
• I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat and use a booster …….
