We’ve survived 2020 and we’ve rung in 2021. Now what? As maligned as resolutions can be, we still think they’re useful. They provide on opportunity for us at Westerville Pediatric Dental to renew and revisit any number of good habits we’ve faltered on or start new ones from scratch. One thing we like to do each year is work with our kids to set their own goals for the year. Why not start your year by helping your children create their own resolutions?
Based on your child’s age, the resolution can be about developing a great new routine or improving an existing skill. Maybe your family wants to work together toward a goal. The important thing is to keep the goals reasonable for each person, to make positive steps forward, and to help your child take pride in their achievement.
The American Academy of Pediatricians has some really good recommendations:
Preschoolers:
I will clean up my toys and put them where they belong.
I will brush my teeth twice a day an floss once a day.
I will wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.
Kids, 5- to 12-years-old:
I will drink reduced-fat milk and water every day, and drink soda and fruit drinks only on special occasions.
I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week!
I will always wear a helmet when bicycling.
Kids, 13-years-old and older:
I will try to eat two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables every day, and I will drink sodas only on special occasions.
I will walk the dog at least 4 times a week.
I will make my bed every day.
We find it useful to write down everyone’s goals and keep them posted where everyone can see them. Encouragement and praise are fantastic. Missing something occasionally is perfectly normal in building a new habit, so try to stay positive. Everyone in your family can come together to kindly help each other reach their 2021 goals! Keep us posted and happy new year!
