The end of the year is often viewed as an opportunity for individuals to set resolutions that assist with self-improvement in the new year. These goals are often tied to developing healthier eating habits, exercising more, and spending more time with family and friends, among others. Individuals often construct a routine to ensure that they stick to their resolution. For example, if one is looking to spend more time at the gym, they’ll create a schedule that will maximize their chances of going.
This year, in addition to fostering singular targets, why not set aside a few minutes to go over your family’s goals? Creating a plan to execute these goals is conducive to not only parents, but children as well. This means establishing an organized, regular, and steady model that family members can follow. There are no guidelines as to how many or what kind of objectives you should implement, since each family is different. Instead, focus on tailoring to your individual family’s needs. Below is our how-to guide to popular New Year’s resolutions, and how you and other members of the family can ensure a successful year.
How to Develop Healthier Eating Habits
Part of developing healthier eating habits means keeping a well-stocked pantry and kitchen so parents aren’t scrambling to figure out what to make for their next meal. For parents that are unable to cook, enlist the services of a nanny to assist your family with planning and preparing nutritious meals. Dinnertime is one less thing to worry about, and parents can spend more time with their children instead. Our blog post on how to bounce back from holiday food overload can be found here.
How to Spend Less Time Using Electronics
When used carefully, electronics can have a positive impact on a child’s life, but it’s important to monitor usage. With everyone, take a few minutes to hold a family conversation to add up their digital usage. From there, establish a digital contract that will notate unplugged times, and allow everyone to be present when together. For more information on how parents can use technology in a productive manner, visit our blog post here.
How to Focus on Giving Back
Let’s face it, it can be difficult to find time to volunteer or give back during the year, as families get busy. Rather than wait until the end of the year to discuss charity, instill the importance of kindness year-round via a charity box. Decorate a cardboard box with your children and place it by their bedroom door. Throughout the year, your children can fill it with gently used toys, games, and books, and donate it once it’s filled. Repeat as necessary.
How to Establish Better Sleep Routines
Children that possess a consistent sleep schedule fall asleep easier, have better physical health, and have fewer sleep issues as they get older. An integral feature of an effective sleep routine is consistency. Make sure that you and your partner are on the same page about establishing a regular bedtime and wake time, and then keep to it with your child.
How to Manage Extracurricular Commitments
It’s a fine line to offer your child every possible opportunity to pursue hobbies and interests without overburdening them. For parents, they might be asked to participate in a school volunteer effort, bake cookies, or chaperone a trip. This year, give yourself and your child the freedom to say no to any additional pursuits or commitments. Do what you can, and don’t feel guilty for not doing what you can’t.
How to Sync Your Schedules
A wall calendar is better for younger children because they have a visual image that helps them keep track. Remember, a calendar is only beneficial if you maintain and check it frequently. One way to do this is to hold weekly meetings discussing everyone’s plans and priorities for the week ahead. If nothing else, these meetings become a time to connect with each other.
Contact the Nanny Authority Today!
It’s a journey determining what works for your family, so don’t get discouraged if your first or second attempts don’t pan out. However, one way to help you attain your goals is to consider hiring a nanny or family assistant that will help you manage your routine and assist with childcare. Contact us via e-mail or at 973-466-2669 for more information today!