New Year’s Resolutions for Kids
As the year wraps up, it’s a time for reflection. My family had a full and fast year with many memories made. And as the new year is right around the corner, many people start making resolutions for the year ahead. Some people say resolutions are silly, but I do believe goals have a place and give you a roadmap of sorts to make the most of your time.
It’s not just a time for adults to buy gym memberships; it’s also a wonderful teaching moment for parents and influencers in children’s lives to use this irresistibly magnetic holiday to create lifelong habits. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers healthy New Year’s resolutions for kids that include these three for preschoolers:
“I will be nice to other kids who need a friend or look sad or lonely.” More and more, children are being taught the fundamentals of kindness from an early age. Chris Phelps, founder of the Campaign for Kindness, says, “We want children to believe that they can make the world a better place, simply by being kind to the people around them.” One of those fundamentals of kindness is to curb bad words and behaviors early in life. It’s normal for most children to experiment with dirty words and dirty jokes in the course of growing up. They will also repeat powerful or offensive words that they hear adults use. Have your child make a New Year’s resolution to practice kindness and thinking of others.
“I will brush my teeth twice a day, and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.” Keeps germs at bay by teaching the importance of good hygience. By giving children small fun toothbrushes, perhaps with their favorite cartoon character like Barbie, Cars, or Hello Kitty, you can help them keep the resolution so it isn’t like a chore.
“I will pick up my toys and put them where they belong.” Start a new reward chart for the new year that encourages young ones to pick up and take care of their space. Good habits start early.
I like these resolution suggestions from the AAP for ages 5-12:
“I will never encourage or even watch bullying, and will join with others in telling bullies to stop.”
“I will try to talk with my parent or a trusted adult when I have a problem or feel stressed.”
“I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week!”
What’s on your list of resolutions? If getting healthy as a family is one resolution, nominate yourself, spouse and kids to be a spotlight family in our 2015 Fit Family Challenge. It’s a wonderful way to have fun and be healthy together. Learn more.
