How Goals Help Your Children Succeed
What parent doesn't want to see their child succeed in life? We all have dreams for our children, but do you know what their dreams are? Talk to your kids and see what it is they want to do, whether it is playing a sport, learning to play an instrument or going to college. Spend the time to listen to them and your own children may surprise you. But, how do you help them to succeed without doing the work for them? You teach them the skills they need to make and meet their goals. Give them tools to work with.
First, sit down with your child and make a list of all their dreams and goals. Talk about which ones are most important to them. Also discuss which ones are not practical. Then sort them into "now" things and "later" things, to teach them the concept of short-term and long-term goals. It is important for them to know that most things won't happen immediately. Have them pick one or two short-term goals to start with, so they aren't trying to do too much at once.
For example, if they want to go out for a school sports team, have them list everything they need to do and know to do it. Get a calendar and mark the tryout date. Working from the current date to then, write down all the things they need to do to prepare. They will need to get equipment, if they don't already have it. They will need to exercise and get into shape. They will need to practice the various skills for the sport. Help them work out a practice schedule. Then as they master a skill, check it off the goal list. Before they know it, they are ready for the tryouts, and because they prepared, they have a better chance of making the team.
When setting long-term goals, it is a little more difficult for kids to understand that it does take time. By setting smaller, milestone goals, it makes it a little easier. They are able to see progress one step at a time. If they are saving up money for a special purchase, set up a visual chart to help them see how they are getting closer all the time. Something like a picture of a thermometer with a picture of what they want at the top. As they save money, they can color in another degree for each dollar saved.
The most important way to show your children how to plan and set goals is to set one yourself. Let them see you working toward something as well. By working together, even if for different goals, it helps them see that it can be done. You can encourage each other when the going gets a little tough. These skills will serve them well in school and the work world.
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