Resolutions and Healthy Habits for the New Year

New Year's Resolutions for Your Family
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We are only a few weeks into the new year, so it's not too late to get those last minute resolutions and habits mapped out.  Better late than never, right? The American Academy of Pediatrics recently published recommendations for "healthy new year's resolutions" for children of all ages. ​​

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Too Early to Start Making Resolutions?
Parents may wonder if children are capable of making and following through with a resolution for the new year. This may depend on your child, but your attitude and excitement about setting goals and a fresh start in the new year is also important. Kids model the behaviors they see, and if this exercise is treated as a fun and healthy one, your kids will likely jump on the bandwagon.

Forming a Habit
For little children, or kids who are on busy schedules with school and extracurricular activities, the idea of forming good habits over time might be an easier concept to tackle. Instead of crafting a long list of "resolutions," families can work with their child to pick a few habits that the child might like to develop. Then, the child focuses solely on that one habit for a period of 30, 60, or even 90 days. This might be getting in the habit of making the bed, flossing teeth, or even reading at night before bed. The key is to pick one so it is not overwhelming. After a while, the task becomes second nature, and the victory of forming this habit will spur the child to pick up other healthy habits. 

Put it in Writing in a Visible Place
Once your child has crafted a resolution or decided on a habit, write it down! There is power in putting the idea to paper. You can help your child with this if they are really little. Then, display this in a visible place--fridge, family bulletin board, bathroom mirror, etc. Starting this process in childhood is a great gift you can give your child, as they will be able to use these tools throughout their lives.

The American Academy of Pediatrics Tips to Get Started
Ready to go? As you start brainstorming with your child, check out these age appropriate recommendations and tips. Good luck, and I wish you and your children a very productive and habit-filled 2016!

Preschoolers

• I will clean up my toys by putting them where they belong.
•  I will let my parents help me brush my teeth twice a day.
• I will wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating. 
• I will help clear the table when I am done eating

For Complete List Click Here.

Kids, 5-12 years old 

• I will drink reduced-fat milk and water every day, and drink soda and fruit drinks only at special times. 
• I will take care of my skin by putting on sunscreen before I go outdoors on bright, sunny days. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I'm playing sports.
•  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!

For Complete List Click Here.

Kids, 13 and up

•  I will try to eat two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables every day, and I will drink sodas only at special times. 
• I will take care of my body through physical activity and eating the right types and amounts of foods.
•  I will choose non-violent television shows and video games, and I will spend only one to two hours each day – at the most – on these activities. I promise to follow our household rules for videogames and Internet use. 
• I will help out in my community – through giving some of my time to help others, working with community groups or by joining a group that helps people in need.

​For Complete List Click Here.