Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders. As you start the new year, take time with your child to discuss New Year’s resolutions that can help them build leadership skills. Think about dreams you’ve discussed with your child where a new outlook can help them get to the next step. Setting goals for the New Year may give them that push they need. Here are a few self-improvement goals that can help children thrive:
Learn to Manage Stress
Everyone has stress, especially children who feel pressured to be the best. High achievers strive to be better and often bite off more than they can chew. Some students struggle to keep up with all their commitments. It’s important for children and adults alike to take a step back when they become overwhelmed. This may look like pausing when stressed to take a breath and reframe the situation. It could also mean learning to say “no” to new obligations when they’re already doing enough. You and your child can work on this together by practicing stress management techniques.
Become a Better Friend
Friends are everything to children. It can be difficult for a child to understand why someone likes them one week and doesn't the next. There’s a lot that can go wrong in a friendship, and it helps to consider ways to prevent losing friends. Children, just like adults, want friends who are trustworthy, reliable and kind. Encourage your child to foster their friendships by focusing on personal connections. This essential life skill will help them on school grounds and beyond.
Try Out for Something New
There’s always something new to try. Children can become well-rounded by learning new skills and discovering new talents. Maybe they’re skilled at sports but always wanted to try out for the talent show. Perhaps they love writing but never considered entering a writing contest. This could even be the year your smart but shy child finally tries out for the debate team. Having something to work toward will give them something to look forward to and give them a unique skill set that they can use later on in life.
Get Involved in the Community
No matter where you live, there will always be someone in the community who needs help. Encourage your child to get more involved in their community this year. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering to coordinating canned food drives. Talk to your child about which causes interest them the most, and see how you can help them plan out a service project. If they enjoy volunteering, look for opportunities at nonprofits in your area throughout the year. Community involvement will help them understand the world around them and help with future career prospects.
To start the new year, help your child set goals that will help them build leadership skills. At North Tampa Christian Academy, a Tampa private school, students thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.