As the year comes to an end, now is a wonderful time to pause and reflect with your child. Looking back together gives you an opportunity to highlight their growth, build confidence, and set goals. Over the next few weeks, you can set aside time for a few intentional moments that can make a big difference. Below are a few simple, meaningful ways to get started.
Take a moment for quiet, cozy reflection.
Find a quiet, cozy moment during bedtime or a car ride where you can ask your child open-ended questions that help them think about their experiences, build language skills, and share what stood out to them most. Some questions might include:
- “What made you happy this year?”
- “What’s something new you learned?”
- “What was your favorite memory we made together?”
Celebrate wins – both big and small.
Children often don’t realize how much progress they’ve made. Looking at photos or drawings from earlier in the year and pointing out even the smallest achievements can boost their confidence and show them that effort matters. You might highlight:
- A new friendship they formed
- A skill they practiced, like zipping a coat or writing letters
- A time they showed bravery or kindness
Set gentle goals for the year ahead.
Goal setting teaches children that learning is a journey. By keeping them light and playful, children feel excited rather than pressured. Invite your child to choose one simple, achievable goal for the coming year, such as:
- Learning to ride a scooter
- Helping set the table
- Reading more bedtime stories together
Create a Small Family Tradition
Creating traditions can help children see the passage of time in a positive, meaningful way and give your family something to look forward to each year. Consider:
- Adding a note to a “memory jar”
- Taking an annual photo in the same spot
- Drawing a picture of your favorite moment from the year
As we look ahead to a new year full of discovery and growth, we’re grateful to be part of your child’s learning journey. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful things they’ll accomplish.
