The start of a new year is a great time to help your children focus on forming good habits. Making New Year's resolutions can be a fun way to do this!
Making resolutions together
It's a good idea to sit down with your kids and, together, pick maybe one or two goals they want to set as their New Year's resolutions. If it's too overwhelming to think of them as resolutions, then just talk about them as goals and make it fun.
Keep it fun
If your child meets that goal of reading every day for a week, maybe they get to pick the family movie during the weekend. Maybe your preschooler can eat more vegetables by drinking them in smoothies that the whole family enjoys. Involving kids in the decision-making and making these fun for the entire family can help turn these resolutions into long-lasting habits.
Let's take a look at some appropriate and achievable New Year's resolutions for kids:
New Year's resolution ideas for preschoolers
I will try hard to tidy up my toys by putting them where they belong after playing with them.
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 the different colours of vegetables.
I will be friendly to all animals. I will learn how to ask the owners if I can pet their animals 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.
New Year's resolution ideas for kids (5 to 12 years old)
I will drink water every day and healthy beverages like milk with meals.
I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car.
I will try to find a physical activity or a sport I like and do it at least three times a week!
I will always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.
I'll try to be friendly to kids who may have a hard time making friends by talking with them and inviting them to join activities
I promise that I'll do my best to follow our household rules for video games and internet use.
I will try to save time to read for fun.
I will make sure to keep my room tidy.
I will use my manners and say 'please' and 'thank you' when needed.
I will try to do my best in school.
I will take care of my pet, making sure it has food and water. (Only applicable if the child has a pet).
I will respect my friends, family and teachers.
Ideally, New Year's resolutions teach kids how to set and work steadily toward goals. That can be especially valuable for those who have learning and thinking differences. But kids may need some help creating meaningful goals they'll be able to stick with. Take a look at our free New Year's resolution resource and download it for FREE!