Goal Setting with Kids
The new year is always a great time to think about our goals, this goes for kids as well. Teaching kids how to properly set and achieve goals is very important. This is a skill that everyone needs and should learn young.
Here are some tips for setting goals with kids:
Let them choose their big goal.
- Ask questions like:
- What’s something you wish you could achieve?
- What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?
Discuss the purpose of their goal.
- Ask questions like:
- What do you think is the greatest benefit to you?
- How can that help others?
Break the big goal into smaller steps.
- Use a goal ladder to break down their big goal. At the top of the ladder write down the big goal. Then work your way through the steps it would take to achieve it.
Brainstorm potential obstacles.
- Encourage them to plan for potential obstacles. Talk about bad habits or negative thoughts, include a desire to give up. Ask “If you feel like giving up what do you do?”
By writing down their goals, they are 4-5 more likely to achieve them.
If they want to give up on their goal
- Remind them of the purpose behind their goal.
- Remind the, how they decided to deal with this obstacle.
- Recognize as they climb the steps on their goal ladder.
- Give examples of your own struggles at their age.
- Focus on how they can continue improving.
- Celebrate their effort, determination, and persistence.
- Teach them positive self-talk.