Setting goals for kids is like planting seeds of imagination, curiosity, and determination. It's not just a tradition but a magical gateway to a world where their aspirations take flight. Helping your kids set goals from a young age helps to build habits that your children will keep with them as they grow.
We have outlined 5 simple steps to help you get your kids started on setting their goals and we've also included a bonus worksheet to help you get them started!
Step 1: Choose Their Goal Wisely
Make goal-setting a tool for achieving dreams, not a chore. Let your kids pick their own goals by asking questions like:
What do you want to improve?
What do you want to try?
How can your talents grow?
What challenges keep coming up?
And, most importantly, stick to one major goal to avoid overwhelming them.
Step 2: Refine the Big Goal
We've all heard about SMART goals and the same principle applies to kids. Ensure that the main goal they choose is specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and time-specific by answering:
Who is involved?
What do you want to accomplish?
Where will it be achieved?
When do you want to achieve it?
How will you know you achieved it?
Step 3: Break It Down
Help kids understand the process by breaking their main goal into mini-goals. If their goal is to get better grades, some of their smaller tasks could include practising the subject, doing tutorials and asking for help.
Step 4: Set Dates
Establish deadlines for the main goal and each mini-goal. A time-bound approach creates urgency and motivation. Make sure to be involved, celebrate their achievements and allow flexibility if they are struggling.
Step 5: Address Challenges
Prepare kids for obstacles by discussing potential issues and solutions. Encourage them to ask for help, focus on improvement, remember their reasons, and celebrate small achievements.
And most importantly, guide your kids every step of the way and teach them to believe in their capabilities and stay motivated.
Here is your free worksheet: