At the close of every year, many people make ambitious New Year’s Resolutions, promising themselves that this is the year they will finally follow through.
Others give a lackluster effort to resolution-making, knowing January won’t end before they’ve given up. And some people just can’t even.
No worries, we’ve compiled a list of completely doable resolutions; for young kids, teens, and the young at heart, that might just make the difference!
KIDS
Their resolutions, of course, require your help as a parent; whether talking about the health of our planet, or about theirs. But the more they understand, the easier– and more rewarding– it will be.
No more straws. Good habits start young. Have an honest talk with your kids about why single-use plastic straws are bad for the environment. Have them think about all of the places they may encounter straws such as restaurants, movie theaters and school. (500 million straws are thrown away in the US. EACH day.)
Buy less, build more. Instead of buying yet another toy, encourage your child’s creativity by supplying recycled materials for crafting. Cardboard makes the best castles! (A great way to save money and recycle those Amazon Prime boxes!)
Power down. Two hours before bedtime, encourage kids to ditch their screens in exchange for books for maximum relaxation. In fact, make the kitchen the family docking station so there are no late-night electronic temptations. (Blue light is a potent suppressor of melatonin, a key hormone in falling asleep.)
TEENS
Maybe they fell out of the habit, or maybe they’re too cool for a resolution, but have everyone in the family share their resolutions so everyone can help each other along the way!
Sign a digital citizenship contract. We raise our kids to be polite and respectful in person, so why wouldn’t we stress those same values in the online environment? (Click here to read Nola Family’s “Digital Citizenship Contract” article.)
Call your grandparents. A five-minute phone call from a grandkid just ‘to say hello’ can turn their whole day around. (Kids with close relationships with grandparents have fewer emotional and behavioral problems. Grandparents benefit as well, as bonding with grandkids helps with depression- and lowers the chance of Alzheimers.)
Indulge your siblings. When your little sister is begging you to look at her latest creation, look! Your approval means everything to younger siblings.
PARENTS
Practice warm hellos and goodbyes. Instead of shouting a quick “bye!” as you bolt out the door, take a little time to give hugs and a genuine “have a great day!” Same goes for reuniting at the end of the day. (This models the great habit of civility and– hugs are super endorphin boosters!)
Volunteer as a family. Create a meaningful memory by volunteering together and show kids that they can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Stop body-shaming yourself; your kids hear it. And learn it. In fact, don’t do it at all. Not only will it help prevent body-image stigmas in your kids, you’re just not being good to yourself. Be good to you.