Teaching goal-sitting to kids (First of two Parts)

With the coming of a new year, we begin to set goals to achieve before the year ends. We identify the things we intend to accomplish, and would consider it a good year if they are realized.

Goal setting, though, is not just for grown-ups. Children, even as young as five years old, can set their own short or long-term goals.

Goal setting—and more importantly goal reaching—can both serve as groundwork for more valuable life skills. Teaching your children to work for their goals not just boosts their confidence but gives them a sense of achievement as they plan, develop, and accomplish the goals.

Whether it is passing their English quiz, winning a gold medal for swimming, or saving money to buy a bike, goal setting helps children widen their perspective in life. 

It is, therefore, worth the effort to have kids work on a goal, which is a good training for them to be successful in their future endeavors.

Here is one reminder to remember when teaching your kids how to set goals:

Guide, but don't dictate. Make the planning theirs, not yours. Brainstorm together with your kids as they plot their personal goals. You can look at last year's list that they have not done yet. More importantly, listen when your little ones say, "I wish I could..." and think about ways to turn that hopeful thinking into a specific goal.

You could also ask them more elaborate questions, such as, "What would you like to learn this year?", or "What would you like to achieve this year?". These simple questions can ignite their imagination on what they really want to do or to achieve for the year.

As you continue, make their goals simple and achievable. For a six-year old kid, she can start with a household chore or joining a singing competition. We should not also forget to emphasize to them their goals on education, relationship with others, financial motivation, and physical activities.

Determine the steps on how to achieve each goal. Decide when each step will be worked on. Celebrate when each goal is achieved. (Next: Create a goal chart.)

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