New Year, New Beginnings: Resolutions and Intentions as a Family

The start of a new year is a time brimming with possibilities, a blank slate inviting us to dream, plan, and set goals. While we often think of New Year’s resolutions as personal commitments, they can be just as meaningful when shared as a family. Coming together to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the one ahead fosters connection, encourages mutual support, and makes the process more fun and engaging.

Here’s how to embrace New Year’s resolutions and intentions as a family while creating lasting traditions and memories.


Reflecting on the Year That Was
Before diving into goals for the future, take a moment to reflect as a family on the year gone by. Gather around the dinner table or cozy up in the living room and share your favorite memories, funniest moments, and biggest achievements.

Encourage everyone to answer questions like:
What was a highlight of your year?
What’s something new you learned or tried?
What’s one thing you’re proud of?

This reflection isn’t just about celebrating the positives but also about acknowledging challenges and how you overcame them. Sharing these reflections helps children understand the value of growth and resilience while fostering a sense of gratitude for the shared experiences of the past year.


Setting Family Intentions
Instead of individual resolutions, start by setting collective family intentions. These can be simple goals or themes for the year that everyone contributes to. For instance:

"Spend more time outdoors as a family."
"Prioritize kindness and helping others."
"Cook and eat more meals together."

Family intentions help unify everyone around shared goals and create a sense of accountability. Make these goals visual by creating a "Family Vision Board" where everyone adds pictures, words, or drawings that represent your intentions. Hang it somewhere visible to keep the focus alive throughout the year.


Personal Resolutions with Support
While family intentions are a wonderful way to stay connected, individual resolutions are just as important. Each family member can set their own goals based on their interests and aspirations, no matter how big or small.

For younger kids, resolutions might include:
“Read a new book every month.”
“Keep my room tidy.”
“Learn a new skill like riding a bike or baking.”

For parents, resolutions might focus on self-care, work-life balance, or dedicating more one-on-one time with each child. Encourage sharing these resolutions with the family so everyone can support each other in achieving them.


Making It Fun and Lighthearted
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to feel like a chore. Infuse some fun into the process by incorporating creative activities:

Resolution Jars: Give everyone a jar to write their goals on small pieces of paper. Throughout the year, revisit the jar to see how far you’ve come.
Wish Balloons: Write down resolutions or wishes for the year and place them inside balloons. Pop them at the end of the year to see which ones came true.
Time Capsule: Create a family time capsule with notes about your goals, photos, and small mementos. Open it together next New Year’s Eve to reflect on your growth.


Finding the Balance Between Goals and Grace
Resolutions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if they become overly rigid. Teach your children (and remind yourself) that it’s okay if not every goal is achieved perfectly. What matters most is the effort and the journey.

Instead of focusing on "failing" to meet a goal, celebrate progress. For example, if the family resolution was to eat healthier and you only managed to cook at home half the time, that’s still a win compared to before. This approach encourages a growth mindset and helps everyone feel proud of their efforts.


Creating a Year of Connection
One of the most meaningful resolutions a family can make is to prioritize time together. In a busy world filled with school, work, and endless to-do lists, carving out space for quality family time can strengthen bonds and create cherished memories.

Consider resolutions like:
Monthly family game nights or movie marathons.
Weekend nature walks or bike rides.
Daily gratitude sharing at dinner.

These simple commitments can make a big difference in creating a sense of togetherness and joy.


A Fresh Start for All Ages
The beauty of New Year’s resolutions and intentions is that they’re adaptable to every stage of life. From toddlers excited to "help out more" to teenagers aiming for personal milestones, the practice of setting goals builds confidence and fosters a sense of purpose.

For parents, the new year is also a time to reflect on your role as a guide and role model. Leading by example—whether it’s showing commitment to your goals or gracefully adjusting when things don’t go as planned—teaches your kids valuable life lessons.



The start of a new year is an invitation to dream big, celebrate small victories, and strengthen the bond within your family. Welcome a year of possibilities by setting resolutions and intentions together, you create not just goals but a shared vision for the year ahead.

As you ring in the new year, let the focus be on connection, growth, and gratitude. Whether it’s through shared adventures, silly traditions, or meaningful milestones, embrace the fresh start as a family—and make it a year to remember.