WADE K. MEYER, M.Ed.

“I want…I want…I want…”  These were the voices of most children, and many adults as well, throughout the past two months. We listened to our children, asking them what they wanted Santa to bring, and reminded them to be “good,” whatever we defined that to mean. 

Christmas, 2007 is now in the past.  The discussions over the “meaning of Christmas” have subsided for the next several months.  Discussions now turn to the traditional “resolutions.”  2008 for many will mean attempts at weight loss, better relationships, improved financial situations, and habits like smoking and drinking to diminish or go away completely.  As we prepare our own “I will” statements, don’t forget the children. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a wonderful article entitled, “20 Healthy New Year’s Resolutions for Kids,” which outlines suggested “I will” statements which you and your children can make together. One for preschoolers states, “I will clean up my toys.” One for the 5 – 12 year olds is, “I will drink milk and water, and limit soda and fruit drinks.”

To use an old cliché, most of these are not “rocket science.” At the same time, I know the specific areas relevant to my own 16-year-old and 11-year-old sons. After checking out the suggestions in the link provided, sit down with the kids and create a short “I will” for them and for you.  Make sure that the list is attainable.  Focus on your “I will” list.  While doing your monthly review, avoid nagging the kids about theirs, but instead share with them the progress you have made on yours.  Most importantly, make progress on your list.  Modeling remains one of the best ways to teach our kids how they should conduct their lives.  Hopefully, next year at this time, before making our “I will” list for 2009, we can celebrate the “I did” list from 2008.

© 2008, Wade K. Meyer, M.Ed. All Rights Reserved.

Wade K. Meyer, M.Ed. is a parent, college professor and writer. He is also a board member of the Center for Effective Discipline,Columbus, Ohio.  www.wademeyer.com, email at wademeyer@wademeyer.com.  Wade searches for articles and information for parents. The article herein referenced may be found at http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/jankidstips.htm.