The start of a new year is a great time to help your children focus on forming good habits. Making resolutions together can help family members of all ages set goals, help with accountability and can even be fun for the whole family. It doesn't have to be overwhelming, try picking 1-2 goals and start by incorporating small daily tasks. You can make it more fun by creating a fun sticker chart or giving praise or rewards when goals are accomplished. Involving kids in the decision-making process, can help turn resolutions into long lasting habits throughout the year. Here are a few ideas you can suggest to your family:
- Family activities: Prioritize togetherness in the new year. Try learning a new hobby together, establishing a family game night or planning fun dinners that include all hands-on deck like fondue night or make your own pizza party.
- Learn a new language: Several apps make learning more accessible and fun.
- Volunteering: There are several local organizations that accept volunteers of all ages and abilities. Please check out these options in our community. Second Harvest allows children aged 8 and older. Check out other local opportunities here
- Practice random act of kindness: Hold the door for the person behind you, pick up a piece of trash or shovel a walkway for a neighbor. Small acts can have a ripple effect and truly brighten someone's day. The Minnesota Kindness Alliance is a great way to spread kindness, volunteer and incorporate their rock painting into a family activity.
- Reduce screentime: Set timers or use screentime as a reward when a goal is met, or a good deed has been done. Try to lead by example and have a no phones policy for the entire family at the dinner table or after a designated time. Try a reading challenge or focus on other activities that don't include screens, like board games or playing outside.
- Practice gratitude: Keep a journal, incorporate into table talk at the dinner table and have each person share a story of what they are thankful for.
- Healthy habits: Take a family walk, let kids pick out fruit and veggies when grocery shopping or make it fun by incorporating playful activities to encourage healthy behaviors.
- Eco-friendly: Try composting, using reusable packaging when sending school lunches and bringing bags from home when grocery shopping. Here is an article to help with some composting basics for beginners. In January, Maple Grove is starting an organics recycling program. Residents can recycle food scraps, house plants and paper waste. Sign up here!
