Eight Fun New Year’s Resolutions for Kids

New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for adults! The New Year is a wonderful time to teach your child the importance of setting goals, being responsible, and following through on commitments. If you’re stumped on resolutions that your child can make (and keep), check out our ideas for New Year’s resolutions for kids below.

I’m going to clean up my toys when I’m done with them.

This is a great resolution for little ones who are still learning to form this habit. It teaches kids that responsibilities and daily chores around the home are part of being a family. Many young kids find it tough to follow through on their chores at the beginning, and that’s okay. Making this resolution can put them on the right path.

I will drink water instead of juice or soda.

Leave fruit juice and soda for special occasions. If you want your child to get into the habit of drinking more water, swap a few servings of drinks every day. You might also swap soda and juice for milk instead.

I will have a fruit or vegetable with every meal.

Similarly, this resolution will help children form healthy eating habits. It’s also less vague than the resolution of “eat healthier.” You can tailor this resolution to your child’s needs; instead of having one with every meal, maybe you can swap mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks of chips or cookies with fruit or veggies instead. Remember to discuss that it’s important to eat plenty of fruits and veggies, so they grow up strong and healthy.

I’m going to join a new team sport or club.

Regular physical activity is just as important as eating a balanced diet. Instead of using the phrase “I’ll exercise more,” which is a hard enough resolution to keep as adults, make it more specific. If your child has been wanting to join a soccer team or learn how to play basketball, encourage them to make that resolution for the New Year.

I will read instead of watching TV or playing video games.

Here’s another resolution that’s more specific than “I’ll cut down on screen time.” Swap one hour of screen time for reading a book. This is also a great resolution that the whole family can do together. If you swap screens for other family time activities, it doesn’t always have to be reading. Maybe everyone can play board games or go to the park together instead.

I’m going to save my allowance.

Does your child get a weekly allowance or money for doing chores? Maybe they can resolve to save their money for something that they want to buy. It’s a helpful way to get your kids thinking about managing money, saving, and sticking to a budget.

I will learn how to do one new thing this year.

Working on a new skill or hobby takes practice and determination. It also feels very rewarding when you notice you’re making progress. Encourage your child to learn something new for the New Year. Depending on their age, maybe they can learn how to cook or bake something (with your help), ride a bike, learn a new game, or start coding.

I will be kind to others.

Sometimes everyone needs a little refresher on kindness and manners. This resolution is another that not only the kids can make, but parents, too. Remember to share, say “please” and “thank you,” and be nice to friends and family. Instead of getting mad and starting an argument, take a breath and walk away to calm down. Be friendly to other children at school, particularly those who seem lonely and need a friend.

Learn new skills with Stratford School

When you’re in an environment that encourages good habits, keeping New Year’s resolutions can feel a lot easier. Stratford School’s curriculum focuses on academic subjects, life skills, and character that will prepare kids for success in the future. Schedule a tour of a Stratford School campus near you to learn more.