A new year brings new beginnings and the opportunity to start again. This opens the door for you to have a great conversation with your little ones about what kind of values you would like them to embrace. Learning to be honest, helpful and respectful are just a few concepts that can be included in New Year's resolutions.
In this beautifully-illustrated book written by American author, teacher and librarian, Pat Miller, we learn all about New Year's resolutions in a fun and colorful way. I especially love this book because it gently teaches children about setting goals. Here, you can explain that it's easy to say that you are going to do something, but challenging to stick to a goal and see it through to the end.
Thinking about their ambitions is an excellent process for children to undertake, and one that will help them throughout their lives. It creates a time to reflect on their life direction and how they can actively make changes. This story helps to set the foundation for making resolutions to become a healthy and lasting habit. Individuals have a lot of control over where they are and what they are doing with their lives. Often, all that is needed is a positive attitude, a sense of adventure and the
determination to stick to a plan.
Image via Amazon.cn
In this book we see the character Squirrel learn about setting goals and making resolutions with help from her friend, Bear. She explains that a resolution is, "a promise you make to yourself to be better or to help others." With this guidance, Squirrel takes a more in-depth look at her life and how she interacts with her friends. Here the story focuses on another important lesson, helping others.
This kind of story provides many opportunities to pause and discuss with your little ones how this applies to their lives. You can include questions around what changes they would like to make and what they think they can do differently.
Setting these goals and monitoring them throughout the year is also an excellent way for children to understand accountability. So, use this New Year's Eve as a way to delve into the resolution process with your children. I am sure you will be amazed by what they come up with.
[Cover image via Amazon.cn]
Suitable for children ages 4-8; Available via taobao.com and Amazon.cn
Pat Miller is the author of over 20 books. To find out more check out her website: patmillerbooks.com
Kendra Perkins is Head Librarian at an international school. She was coordinator for the Shanghai Librarians Network and Ambassador of China for the International Librarians Network. Find her at www.TheInspiredLibrarian.com
