A Guide to Helping Your Children Achieve Their Goals
As the new year approaches, many of us start thinking about resolutions. It’s a time for reflection and setting intentions for the year ahead. How can we engage our kids in setting and reaching attainable goals for the new year? Using the SMART goal-setting method, we can implement what our students have been learning in True Colors. This approach helps our students define their goals more clearly and increases the likelihood of success.
What Are SMART Goals?
SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting resolutions that stick. Let’s break down each element and see how it can transform your child’s New Year's resolutions.
Specific
The first step is to help make your child’s goal specific. Instead of saying, “I want to play piano,” specify what that means for them. For example, they might say, “I want to play piano three times a week.” This clarity makes it easier to understand exactly what they need to do.
Measurable
Next, make sure their goal is measurable. This means attaching a number to their goal so you can help them track their progress. For instance, if their resolution is to “practice piano” they could say, “I will practice piano 30 minutes, five days a week.” This allows them, and you, to monitor their success and stay motivated.
Achievable
Their goal should be realistic. While it’s great to aim high, setting unattainable goals can lead to disappointment. For example, if they have never played soccer, making the competitive team might be unattainable. Instead, consider starting with “I want to learn to play soccer and join a team this spring” This makes it more likely that they will stick with it.
Relevant
Ensure their goal aligns with your family values and what truly matters to them. Ask them why this goal is important. If their resolution is to practice piano 3x/week, think about why that matters—perhaps the move to the next level or play a harder piece at their next recital. This relevance will keep them motivated throughout the year.
Time-bound
Finally, set a deadline for their goal. This adds a sense of urgency and helps them prioritize their efforts. Instead of saying, “I want to learn to juggle” specify a timeframe: “I want to learn to juggle with 3 balls in 2025.” With a deadline in place, you can adjust their approach as needed.
Putting SMART Goals into Action
Now that you understand the components of SMART goals, it’s time to apply them to their New Year’s resolutions. Here’s how you can help them get started:
- Reflect on what they truly want to achieve in the coming year. Consider areas like health, school, activities, and personal growth.
- Write down their resolutions in a SMART format. Make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
- Create a plan that outlines the steps they need to take to reach their goals. Identify potential barriers and brainstorm solutions.
- Track their progress regularly. Check in with yourself weekly or monthly to see how you’re doing and adjust your plan if necessary.
- Help them stay motivated by celebrating small wins along the way. Each step forward is progress!
Conclusion
As we step into a new year, let’s help our children make resolutions that are more than just wishful thinking. By applying the SMART goal-setting method, we can create clear, actionable plans that lead to real change. This year, let’s resolve to set ourselves up for success and transform our aspirations into achievements. Happy New Year!
