The start of a new year brings an air of possibility and fresh starts. As your children head back to school after the holidays, now is the perfect time to help them set meaningful goals to work towards in the months ahead. With some guidance from you and a growth mindset approach, setting motivational goals can teach important life skills and set students of all ages up for success this year. But how can you do that as a parent? Let’s dive into a couple ways to support your student through setting thoughtful New Year’s Resolutions and goals for the year!
What Are S.M.A.R.T. Goals?
A goal without a plan is just a wish. Having clearly defined goals gives students a sense of purpose and helps them stay focused. S.M.A.R.T. goals follow guidelines that make them easier to tackle:
Specific – Outline precise objectives like improving a grade in a certain class or learning to play a musical instrument.
Measurable – Frame goals with metrics to track progress, like getting an A on the next math test or practicing piano 30 minutes every day.
Achievable – Make sure goals challenge but don’t overwhelm your child’s current abilities.
Relevant – Align goals to your student’s interests and values to improve motivation.
Time-bound – Put an end-date on goals to create accountability and urgency.
Collaborating on Goal Setting
Whether your child is in kindergarten or a senior in high school, there are always ways you can support them in achieving their dreams. Here are some tips on how to collaborate with your student when defining their S.M.A.R.T. goals.:
Elementary Schoolers:
For your little ones, focus on short-term milestones by breaking bigger goals into small pieces. For example, finish 5 math worksheets every week or read 2 new library books per month. Your young children can definitely benefit from the extra help coming up with achievable goals and setting an action plan on how to achieve them.
Middle & High Schoolers:
When it comes to older students, make sure you let them take the reins. For middle school and older, let your teen take the lead but guide them towards realistically achievable goals. Help them prioritize by choosing 1-2 academic and 1-2 personal goals. Having personal goals is extremely important at this age, especially as they start to explore their interests and develop passions outside of academics.
All Ages:
No matter the age, remember to have regular check-ins on progress. Update goals if needed, and implement rewards like favorite activities or prizes for hitting targets. You can also display goals prominently as a visual reminder.
Instilling a Growth Mindset
When working towards goals, students will inevitably face obstacles and setbacks. The way you help them respond to challenges greatly impacts their likelihood of success. Foster positive self-talk, emphasize effort over outcomes, allow them to learn from mistakes, and model resilience in the face of difficulties. Embrace the power of “yet!” With your support, they will adopt a growth mindset where abilities can be developed through dedication and self-improvement is always possible.
When working towards goals, students will inevitably face obstacles and setbacks. The way you help them respond to challenges greatly impacts their likelihood of success. Foster positive self-talk, emphasize effort over outcomes, allow them to learn from mistakes, and model resilience in the face of difficulties. Embrace the power of “yet!” With your support, they will adopt a growth mindset where abilities can be developed through dedication and self-improvement is always possible.
Time to make this year the best one yet!
The dawn of a new year is full of child-like optimism and possibility. Seize this unique moment to empower your students to strive for their dreams. Use S.M.A.R.T. goal planning and consistent encouragement to set them up to thrive this year. The skills they build will position them for achievement far beyond just their academics. Here’s to making this year your student’s best one yet!
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