Setting Goals with your Preschooler

Setting goals with a preschooler can be a fun bonding activity. Always start with what your child does well. Encourage their current accomplishments. Then explain that you want to find something new that they can learn to do just as well as their previous accomplishment. Now it’s time to set those goals!

Set the goal. 

Goals are best when we set them ourselves. The younger the child, the harder it is to think of a goal. Together with your child, come up with a reasonable goal for their age. A preschooler might want to tackle learning: to dress themselves, to catch a ball with one hand, or to write their own name. Keep the goal simple: By October, I will be able to dress myself. Then break the goal down into smaller goals. First, we want to practice the largest motor skill which is the easiest. Putting on pants. This step in and pull up should be easily achieved. Next, we will work on the shirt. These goals should be placed on a poster for your child to see how he/she has moved closer to their ultimate goal.

Keep the goal visible. 

Make a goal chart with a picture of the big goal and pictures of the smaller goals leading up to the big goal. Put these goals on a ladder or steps so the child visually understands that one has to come before the next one. Let your child decorate their poster before hanging it up. To further encourage your child, create your own goal poster and hang it close to your child’s. As you both progress, your child will see you model good habits.

Reward the goal. 

Achieving the goal should be a celebration. Adjust the reward based on the challenge of the goal and the effort required to reach it. Perhaps have your child choose the family game time. Every member of the family plays your little one’s choice of a game for a set amount of time. Or they can have a special breakfast with a family member of their choice. Include relatives in this. Let them choose from aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents who would be willing to celebrate a unique goal with your child.

Remember the process is an achievement. If your child does not reach the end goal, the smaller steps and goals they did achieve should still be recognized as great accomplishments.

Teaching Your Child to Enter New Situations with Confidence 

Want to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Oakbrook located in Norcross, Georgia? Our mission is to provide secure, nurturing, and educational environments for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years. We help children to bloom into responsible, considerate, and contributing members of society. For more information, give us a call or stop by for a tour! We’d love to get to know you and your family.