Kids can make resolutions, too

New Year's resolutions are made so adults can improve their lives in the year to come. But nowhere does it say resolutions are exclusive to adults. In fact, kids can make New Year's resolutions and reap much the same benefits as Mom and Dad.

The following are some kid-specific New Year's resolutions, courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatrics, that can improve the lives of children while teaching them a lesson or two along the way.

Preschoolers

* I will clean up my toys and put them where they belong.

* I will brush my teeth twice a day and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.

* I will be nice and loving toward pets and all animals. I will avoid being bitten by keeping my fingers and face away from their mouths.

Kids, ages 5 to 12

* I will drink milk and water three times each day and limit soda and fruit drinks to once each day.

* I will apply sunscreen before I go outdoors on bright sunny days. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I'm playing sports.

* I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity that I like and do it at least three times a week.

* I will always wear a helmet when riding my bicycle.

* I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car.

* I will be nice to other kids. I will be friendly to kids who need friends -- like someone who is shy or is new to my school.

* I will never give out personal information, including my name, home address, school name, or telephone number on the Internet.

* I will never send a picture of myself to someone I chat with on the computer without my parent's permission.

Kids, ages 13 and older

* I will eat at least one fruit and one vegetable every day, and I will limit the amount of soda I drink, if any at all, to one glass daily.

* I will take care of my body through physical activity and nutrition.

* I will choose nonviolent television shows and video games, and I will spend no more than two hours each day on these activities.

* I will help out in my community by through volunteering, working with community groups or joining a group that helps the less fortunate.

* I will take a break when I feel angry or stressed out and find constructive ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or discussing my problem with a parent or friend.

* I will talk about my choices with an adult whom I can trust when faced with a difficult decision.

* I will talk with a trusted adult and attempt to find a way that I can help friends if I notice they are struggling or engaging in risky behaviors.

* I will be careful about whom I choose to date and always treat the other person with respect and without coercion or violence. I will expect the same good behavior in return.

* I will resist peer pressure to try drugs and alcohol.

* I will not use a cell phone or text message while driving, and I will always wear a seat belt.

Share on: facebook