Goal Setting with Kids: 4 Things You Can Do Today

Navigating 2020 has been tough enough as it is, but navigating these times with kids has brought its unique set of challenges. As adults, we’re able to ground ourselves in routine with gratitude practice and goal setting. Trust us, your kids will find value in these same practices. The uncertainty and constant change can take its toll on children, but we’ve found that creating healthy habits like journaling can create excitement and much-needed guidance.

We asked parents from our team how they’ve been using the Start Today Journals and practicing goal-setting and dreamcasting with their kids! Here’s some advice to get you started:

Give them prompts

A child, no matter what age, isn’t going to know where to begin or be able to write about their exact emotions. Giving them prompts and journal ideas give them a place to start. A few prompt suggestions are to write about school (favorite subjects, things to work on), plans to do this summer (where do you want to go, what do you want to do), and activities (what do you like doing and with who, is there something you’ve always wanted to do).

Lead by example

When your child sees you writing in your Start Today Journal, they’ll be more excited to write in theirs. Bringing them along in your journey of setting a goal, planning how to achieve it and then achieving it, shows them how goal-setting works. Don’t be afraid to share your goals with them as you’re working on achieving them!

Read: 3 Tips to Create a New Morning Routine with Kids

 

Remind them there’s no wrong or right way to do it

Opening up a brand new journal can be intimidating! Writing goals can be scary! Constantly remind your kids that there isn’t a right or wrong way to do this - they get to be the one to decide. If you have multiple kids, encourage them to focus on their own goals rather than comparing to what their brothers or sisters wrote down.

Encourage them to create goals that make them feel proud and excited 

Let your kid make their own goal; don’t try to make them work toward a goal that you secretly want them to achieve. Having a goal that makes them excited to work on and achieve is crucial. Don’t put restrictions on what they can and can’t dream of achieving.

You can grab a journal for your child here or Shop Below!