It can seem like such a drag to suggest that you print and do worksheets with your kids over the holiday break. I get it! Sometimes, the last thing we want to do is more homework. But sometimes, these New Year’s Resolution activities for kids can not only break up boredom but also have tremendous value.
Kids, depending on their disability, may not be fully processing what is going on around them as far as December 31 and January 1. Sure, it’s just another day on the calendar. And a time that may include a party. But it can be really helpful for kids to have the conversation and not assume that they know.
New Year’s Resolution Activity
Ask them if they know what “New Year’s” even means. Why do people celebrate this day? And, if they don’t celebrate it, why is it often both a time to reflect and a time to plan for the future?
I am wildly passionate about parents really pushing their kids in terms of self-advocacy and self-determination. Coming up with either a few New Year’s Resolution Activity or taking time to reflect on the previous year can have a tremendous impact on that.
When self-reflection, self-critique, and self-improvement are something you are able to do without consciously thinking about it, we may take them for granted.
But, some kids do need to be taught everything directly. Looking back on a previous year and celebrating accomplishments and making goals can be a tremendously valuable exercise for self determination.
So I not only invite everyone to use and share these free printable New Year’s Activities and New Year’s Resolution Activities for Kids, but I encourage you to really use them. Make an afternoon or evening of it, parent child bonding time.
Ask probing questions. Discuss thoughts, feelings, and memories.
New Year’s Activities for Kids
Here are some added suggestions for conversation starters.
- Do you remember when XYZ (something on the worksheet) happened? How did you feel about that? Would you like to do it again?
- Why was XYZ your favorite book last year? What did you enjoy about it? (and then you can even discuss reading ability; if it’s a struggle and bounces around ideas and solutions for your child, you may really learn something!)
- Your favorite color is ABC? Why? What is your favorite thing, and what is ABC color? Was that always your favorite color?
- On the last page, there is a place for both reviewing accomplishments and listing goals for next year. Great way to talk about goal setting!
Benefits for Kids-New Year’s Resolutions and Review
Reviewing one year and planning for the future is a great activity for everyone, but especially kids. I mean, how much stuff do you see these days–out there for moms, as far as goal setting, self care and all that? A TON.
Because, many of us were not taught to do this as kids as part of personal growth. Recognizing one’s accomplishments is essential, but certainly for kids who struggle with self awareness and social awareness, as part of a learning disability. There are many other great skills to be learned here.
- Increase self-esteem by acknowledging past accomplishments
- Exercises the working memory part of the brain
- Excellent for sequencing, as the child reflects on the past and talks about the future
- Engages them in a holiday activity that many people take part in, can feel “a part of something” when they hear references to this on tv
- When done together (adult/child or whole family) it can be a great Theory of Mind activity, which is something many of our kids struggle with
- Can help increase self awareness and social awareness skills
Anyway, I’ve talked enough. Enjoy!
