Start a Conversation About Goals for the Upcoming Year
Posted: September 08, 2024
Helping your child set goals for the school year can provide a sense of purpose and motivation. Whether they’re academic, social, or personal goals, having a clear direction can boost confidence and focus. Here’s how to approach it:
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Reflect on Last Year: Begin by discussing what went well last school year and what areas could be improved. This conversation can help your child identify both strengths and areas where they want to grow.
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Set SMART Goals: Encourage your child to set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). For example, instead of saying, "I want to get better at math," a SMART goal could be, "I want to improve my math grade by one letter by the end of the first semester by practicing for 20 minutes daily."
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Break Goals into Steps: Help your child break down larger goals into manageable steps. For instance, if they want to join a sports team, you can discuss the steps involved, such as practicing regularly, staying active, and building confidence.
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Revisit and Revise Goals: Make goal-setting an ongoing conversation. Regularly check in with your child to celebrate progress and make adjustments as needed. This process not only keeps them motivated but also teaches resilience when faced with challenges.