Goal Setting for Kids – 1 Secret and 3 Examples that Help Kids Reach Their Goals
By Jean Tracy, MSS
Goal setting and pictures fit together like chocolate chips and cookies. Both give great satisfaction. Inside you'll find a goal setting secret most parents don't know. Why not share it with your kids?
2 Parenting Tips for Goal Setting
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First, the best goal setting strategy deletes you from the picture.
That's right. You aren't mentally in the picture and neither are your kids. Many experts tell you to picture yourself achieving your goal. Don't do it. Don't tell your kids to do it either.
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Second, to be a good goal setter, your child must see what he sees through his eyes.
When your child plays baseball, both coaches and parents yell out,
Keep your eye on the ball!
They're right.
When your child keeps his eye on the goal, he keeps himself out of the picture.
Parenting Skills – 3 Examples and 1 Secret You Need to Tell Your Kids
The secret
Look outward from yourself and see what you would see when achieving your goals.
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First example
If your Danny has test anxiety, tell Danny
See what you would see when you're taking the test.
Why? If Danny visualizes failing his math test, he'll move toward that picture and make it happen. Of course, Danny must study his math and be ready for the test.
Rather, help Danny visualize his desk, pencil, and test calmly. Tell him to step into the picture and mentally answer the questions each night before he falls asleep.
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Second example
If your Lisa is batting at home plate, tell Lisa
See what you would see when the pitcher throws the ball.
Why? If Lisa sees herself wildly striking at whatever comes her way, she'll move toward that picture and make it happen. Of course, Lisa must practice batting to be ready.
Rather, help Lisa to visualize the balls in the strike zone and strike only at them. Tell her to step into that picture each night before she falls asleep.
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Third example
If your Trevor is nervous about making friends, tell him,
See what you would like to see when you're talking to kids.
Why? If Trevor's picture sees kids ignoring him, he'll move toward that picture and make it happen. Of course, Trevor needs to practice treating kids well to make friends.
Rather, help Trevor visualize friendly faces and friendly feelings when talking to kids. Tell him to step into that picture each night before he falls asleep.
Goal Setting Conclusion
When your child envisions pictures of failing, he'll experience discouragement, low self-esteem, and fear of trying. Now you can teach your child to set positive goals with positive pictures. If you do, he'll find out how they fit together like chocolate chips and cookies.
Become an excellent motivator. Teach your child this proven goal-setting method. He'll be building character too.