What’s exciting about ringing in a brand new year? Each new one brings us a chance to set new goals and an opportunity to improve the way we do things.
This year, what about choosing to become a better version of your mama self? Remember that your child does not need a perfect mama. A happy mama who is trying her best to be better than yesterday is enough for them.
Still thinking of how you can become one? Ahead are suggestions on the goals you can set for yourself this year. We’re rooting for you, mama!
1. Prioritize self-care: get enough sleep, set boundaries, make time for exercise, pursue a passion, and give your skin extra love and attention.
2. Keep your peace while parenting by doing what makes you happy, recognizing your reality, thinking of happy thoughts, and treating yourself every now and then.
3. Practice powerful morning habits that can improve your day, such as making your bed when you wake up and finding time to acknowledge things you are grateful for.
4. Raise a child with emotional intelligence by validating your child’s feelings and letting them solve their problems on their own.
5. Express love using your child’s love language by frequently saying “I love you” (words of affirmation), creating family traditions that foster connections (quality time), preparing their favorite meal (acts of service), offerings hugs and kisses when they are upset (physical touch), and giving them sentimental presents (gifts).
6. Keep your marriage or relationship strong while raising kids by always communicating no matter how busy you are, giving each other timeout every now and then, and doing chores together.
7. Raise independent kids by giving them opportunities to make decisions, allowing them to make mistakes so they can learn from them, and avoiding helicopter parenting.
8. Keep your cool when your toddler is in the middle of a meltdown by giving them space, finding a distraction for them, and using the remarkable power of a hug after the tantrum.
9. Rediscover family fun and bonding by going on road trips or enjoying a family day out in the city. They make for deeper connections and better relationships.
10. Make school mornings a breeze by building a routine, reiterating the importance of proper hygiene, and choosing comfortable clothing.
11. Train your child to always stay hydrated by making water accessible through fun accessories and showing them by example why drinking water is important to their health.
12. Keep your home squeaky clean by arming yourself with the right tools, such as those that combat dust, eliminate foul odor, and automatic items that make your load lighter.
13. Make your child’s study space more conducive for learning by ensuring it is well-lit, comfortable, playful, and clutter-free.
14. Raise mentally strong kids by acknowledging their emotions, taking an interest in their interests, not expecting them to be perfect, and not spoiling your child.
15. Manage your child’s screen time by checking expert recommendations on the amount of screen time based on their age, setting a fixed time to use their gadgets and strictly imposing cutoffs, and encouraging outdoor play.
16. Teach them important safety rules they must remember at all times, including not opening the door for strangers, being careful when crossing the street, not allowing anybody to touch their body without their consent, and never playing with fire.
17. Instill in your child healthy dental habits such as brushing their teeth at least twice a day, visiting the dentist regularly, eating nutritious food, and avoiding thumb sucking.
18. Raise a child who loves to read by setting up a cozy reading corner, choosing age-appropriate books as presents, and scheduling a family book night.
19. Give them more opportunities for unstructured outdoor play as it encourages exercise and movement, develops their curiosity and appreciation for nurture, and increases their socialization skills.
20. Support their love of the arts by setting up a space dedicated for art activities, creating those masterpieces with them, and enrolling them in art classes to further hone their talent.
21. Prioritize safety by babyproofing your home: installing baby gates, locks, and latches; placing slip-proof mats on the floor; putting covers on all electrical outlets; and keeping objects out of your baby’s reach.
22. Teach your child money-saving habits that will help them in the long run, such as knowing the difference between wants and needs, tracking their expenses, and saving money in a piggy bank.
23. Allow your partner to help you navigate parenthood by letting them help with feeding, being in charge of first aid, and giving you time for your own self-care, and being a hands-on dad to your little one.
