Character

The start of the new year is not only a great time for you to focus on goal setting, but it's also a great time to have your kids think about things they would like to improve upon. Ideas that you can work on as a family may be: eating healthier, getting more exercise as a family, keeping your rooms clean, etc. As your child ages, he can be more active in coming up with goals, which will mean more to him when he achieves them.

For preschool-aged children, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends resolutions that focus on cleaning up toys, brushing teeth, washing hands, and being kind to pets.Clarke-Pearson suggests preschoolers be encouraged to work on listening and helping skills, such as making a resolution like "I will be a better listener when Mommy or Daddy asks me to do something" or "I will help out more when Mommy or Daddy asks me." 

For kids ages five to 12, the AAP suggests this age group commit to drinking more milk and water on a daily basis, wearing a seat belt, and being friendly to all children. You should work together with your child to come up with something personal that will be meaningful for them, such as paying more attention to certain school areas or working on waking up earlier in the morning to make it to school on time.

For adolescents, the AAP recommends focusing more on the child taking more responsibility for his actions, including taking care of his body, dealing with stress in a healthy way, talking through conflict, resisting drugs and alcohol and helping others through community service.