Little Man and I have set a goal for the school year. He and I are going to walk or ride our bikes to school for at least 100 days. I may have selfishly suggested this goal since it means I will rarely have to enter car pick-up or drop-off. That my friends is priceless. It also encourages both of us to brave the weather, even on cloudy, drizzly days. Fresh air in the morning does a body good.
In all honesty, it is an easy way to introduce goal setting. Little Man is still quite young {8 years old}, so the goal had to be simple in nature with a clear outcome. After setting our goal, I did a bit of reading. {It appears that goal setting is a multi-million dollar industry? “Experts” from all walks of life!} A few reoccurring principals seem essential when goal setting with young kids.
1. Set a specific goal with measurable terms // We set the goal of riding or walking 100 out 180 school days. Specific and measurable.
2. Set an end date// We have until June 23, 2016, the last day of school.
3. Write goals down and keep track of progress// We created a chart for Little Man to keep track of the days he rides his bike or walks.
4. Find a partner or team// We are in it together!
5. Agree on a reward or celebration// Three words. Great Wolf Lodge. {Oh, lord, help me!}
I think our goal is perfect. It pushes us, but it is reasonable and attainable. Other goals that would be great for young kids: trying new foods, reading a set number of books, practicing an instrument, running a 5K. As kids get older, goals get more complex. I’ll get back to you about setting goals with Big W. That kid is tricky!
What goal could you set with your kids this school year?
Tags: life with boys
