Happy New Year! With a new year comes new goals, even for children. Goal setting isn't just for adults! Goal setting is an important part of any child’s development for many reasons. [stay tuned for a full blog post that goes more into details, give examples depending on age, plus some bonus success tips] * Let’s first understand the difference between goals and resolutions. Resolutions are firm, sometimes unrealistic, decisions made that enable people to believe they must follow them, which may cause a lot of stress. Goals are more realistic choices set in a continuum and can be edited or changed as you wish throughout the year. * Here’s how to start the conversation and how to set, track, and reach goals effectively: 1) Get the idea across and introduce the idea of a goal with examples and fun questions. 2) Start SMART. Kids will have fun reaching and remembering to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely goals with this acronym. Goals should not be vague. 3) Let them choose. Allow them to pick their “big goal” then discuss its purpose (the "why"). Purpose gives kids a “buy-in” to learn and perform better. 4) Take small steps and break the "big goal" down into doable steps. 5) Brainstorm obstacles and how they’ll get addressed. If needed, come up with a plan B for achieving that same goal. Remember, goals are flexible and can be tweaked or revised. Let them know it takes time and steps to achieve a goal. 6) Track progress. Make it fun and visual. Tracking in a visible way not only creates interest, keeps the child motivated, helps them own it and recognize their own progress, but will also remind adults to check in/monitor the progress of their goal. 7) Show them, join them. Don't just tell them to set goals, create/set with them. The process of creating goals is a parenting opportunity and provides moments for connection while instilling hope for success. * #newyear #newgoals #newyearnewgoals #goalsettingforkids #goalsettingforchildren #arttherapist #arttherapy #childtherapist #childtherapy #childrenofdivorce #childrenofabuse #childrenofdomesticviolence #woodlandhillstherapy #woodlandhillstherapist #lmft #mft #atr #ginabalit #theartofmft https://www.instagram.com/p/CJhtoMdjnfm/?igshid=x3hig07o5zvx













