New Year’s Resolutions for Kids

At the start of a new year, adults often take time to reflect and think about positive changes they want to make in their lives. This is a wonderful time for children to do the same.

Here is a list of 10 simple resolutions that young students can choose from to increase their academic, physical, and social/emotional well-being for the new year.

Students should choose at least five that work for the family:

• Read (or read together) at least 15 minutes each night.
• Do a specific chore. On a daily basis, make the bed or take out the trash, match the socks from the clean laundry, feed a pet, etc. A consistent, simple chore helps a young child learn responsibility.
• Write a short letter (with help, if needed) once or twice a month to a grandparent, favorite aunt or uncle, cousin, or friend. This is purposeful practice of a needed skill while bringing joy to a loved one.
• Pick up toys. Help your child understand the importance of everyone cleaning their own mess.
• Drink more water, instead of fruity or sugary drinks.
• Say “please,” “thank you,” and “you’re welcome” more often. Help him understand that good manners count.
• Share more. Let a brother or sister use toys, books, crayons, etc.
• Start a word jar. Pick a new spelling word, or word from a story. At least once a week, write the word on a small piece of paper and add it to the jar. Periodically pick a word from the jar, and have your child use it in a sentence.
• Always brush teeth before bed and wash hands after using the bathroom.
• Save coins in a jar or piggy bank. Once a month, empty the jar and sort the coins. Then count the coins to find the total number.

By helping children make realistic and attainable resolutions, you’re also teaching them a lot about goal-setting and self-discipline—skills that will serve them well their entire lives!