As we start 2026, January is a perfect time to set goals for positive change.
For children, setting a goal for the new year can be a meaningful way to build confidence and teach the skill of perseverance. Here are some tips for making goal setting fun and achievable.
Pick one or all!
Tips for Goal Setting with Kids
Make it specific and measurable - Instead of a goal to “be better at math”, a specific goal such as “practice math facts for 10 minutes every day” is easier to track and celebrate!
Encourage family goal setting - Create shared family goals to promote quality time like weekly family game nights. Quality time routines strengthen relationships and teach the value of togetherness.
Focus on building life skills - Set goals to emphasize independence in daily routines or social interactions. For example, teach your child tasks like packing their lunch, setting the table, or buckling their seatbelt. Accomplishing these small tasks can lead to increased confidence!
Finding Balance
The New Year follows a busy season of holiday activity.
The new year can be a great time to reflect on what worked well during the holidays
and consider what can be improved for next year.
Make Time for Fun
Setting goals for the new year can be fun! A family goal could be going on hikes,
baking, or crafting once a week.
Focus on Values
The start of a new year is also a time to reinforce values like kindness and gratitude. Consider setting goals related to acts of kindness, such as writing thank-you notes or helping in our community. The new year is a great time to reinforce the value of spreading kindness.
Supporting Emotion Regulation through Healthy Digital Habits
Goals for the new year, could include healthy digital habits such as setting limits on screen time or practicing kindness online. Encourage open discussions about how to maintain balance.
If you set family resolutions for the new year, keep them enjoyable and achievable.
Breaking big goals into smaller steps and celebrating successes along the way will help keep it fun. Consider a simple tracker or checklist to see progress and help stay motivated throughout the year.
One tracking idea is to draw a ladder with a big goal at the top and
smaller steps (rungs) leading to it. As each step is completed, color in the rungs of the ladder.
Classroom counseling lessons for January will include setting intentions for the new year.
Wishing you well,
Ms. Jennifer, East Elementary School Counselor
phone: (907) 486-7423
email: jennifer.pedersen@kibsd.org
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Ms. Kelcie, Providence School Counselor
email: kelcie.kleaver@kibsd.org
