The start of a new year is a special time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we want to go. As a pediatrician and mom, I love using New Year’s resolutions as an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come and create a vision for the future. Setting meaningful goals is a powerful way to inspire growth, nurture joy, and foster connection—whether as individuals, families, or even dynamic duos like mom-and-kid or dad-and-kid teams!
Here’s the best part: these tips aren’t just for kids—they work for adults too. In fact, setting resolutions together can be a fun and bonding experience that helps everyone grow.
Reflect Before You Resolve
Before diving into new goals, take time to celebrate the things you and your kids are already doing well. Resolutions aren’t just about change—they’re about continuity too. What brings you joy? What habits or activities are worth continuing? Keeping these in mind ensures your goals feel balanced and positive.
Happiness is contagious, and the world could always use more joyful people. Make sure your goals include things that light you up!
Resolutions for a Balanced Life
For a well-rounded approach to resolutions, I recommend touching on the 8 key categories of a balanced life. These apply to both kids and adults, and they can be adapted in age-appropriate ways for your little ones.
1. Spiritual/Religious/Humanitarian
Encourage your child to think about ways they can connect with their spirituality or help others.
• Examples: “I want to donate some of my toys to kids who don’t have as many.” or "We will go to church 3 Sundays in every month." or "I will volunteer to lead a prayer/meditation/volunteer group at my school one time this year".
2. Family
Help your kids set goals that strengthen family bonds.
• Example: “I want to help with dinner once a week” or “I want to have a game night with my family every month.”
3. Friends
Teach your kids the importance of nurturing friendships.
• Example: “I want to write a nice note to my friends on their birthdays.” or "I will write a "love" note to one family member or friend each month for no reason other than to say hello and you are special to me. (Works GREAT for siblings too.)
4. Physical Health
Encourage goals that promote healthy habits.
• Example: “I want to try a new vegetable every month” or “I’ll play outside for 30 minutes every day.”
5. Mental Health
Help your child recognize the importance of self-care.
• Example: “I’ll spend 10 minutes a day doing something that makes me happy.
6. Finances
Introduce your kids to basic financial skills by setting a savings goal.
• Example: “I’ll save my allowance for three months to buy a new skateboard.” "I'll sell things I don't use anymore to save up for a trip to Busch Gardens" or I'll mow lawns for the entire summer to save up for my share of a car"
7. Fun
Don’t forget to prioritize joy!
• Example: “I’ll learn how to bake cookies” or “I’ll plan a playdate with my best friend every month.”
8. Career/Passion
Encourage your kids to dream big! Talk about what they’d like to be when they grow up and find ways to explore those interests now.
• Example: If your child wants to be a teacher, let them “teach” a sibling, you, or even their stuffed animals. Consider activities like public speaking, reading aloud, or creating lesson plans for fun.
Remember, this is just exploration—it’s about sparking curiosity, not locking in a career path!
The “How” of Reaching Goals
Setting goals is just the first step; discussing how to achieve them is equally important. Break each goal into smaller, actionable steps. For example:
• If your goal is to spend more family time together, decide on specific activities, like a weekly game night or a monthly outing.
• If your child wants to save for a new toy, help them plan how much to set aside each week.
Check-In and Adjust
Goals aren’t set in stone! Plan to check in on your resolutions every month or quarter. Ask questions like:
• Are we making progress?
• Do we need to adjust our goals?
• Should we try new strategies to reach them?
This practice keeps resolutions alive throughout the year and teaches kids that growth is a process.
Resolutions with Joy in Mind
Remember, resolutions should feel empowering, not overwhelming. This whole process could be done over 8 weekends or over a 3 day weekend away. The best goals are ones that bring joy, foster connection, and inspire growth. As you and your family work on your resolutions, keep happiness at the forefront—because the world needs more joyful people.
So, as you sit down to set goals together, reflect on what matters most, dream about the future, and make it a year full of happiness, growth, and connection.
Wishing you and your family a joyful and inspiring New Year!
Here for you Always,
~ Dr, Chacko
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