Stepping into a new year is always exciting, and it often comes with a desire to try new things and explore new opportunities. Instead of viewing the new year as the time for a complete overhaul, think of it as an opportunity to reset and refresh. As a parent, you play a huge role in helping your child start the year feeling confident, supported and motivated, both academically and personally. Setting goals together can create a positive tone for 2026 and beyond. Read on to learn more about how you can help your child start the year off strong.

Reflect on the Past Year

Before looking ahead, it’s helpful to pause and reflect on the year behind you. Sitting down with your child to talk about what they think went well and what felt challenging helps you establish a good starting point when it comes time to set goals. Ask open-ended questions about school, friendships and personal growth. Give them the space to share honestly. It’s important to listen without judgment, as reflection is a time for open conversation instead of self-critique.

Set Age-Appropriate Academic Goals

After you’ve done some reflecting together, you can begin talking about academic goals for the year ahead. Make sure the goals you discuss align with their age and grade level, keeping expectations realistic. Reading habits, homework routines, organization and time management are always good places to start. Rather than centering goals solely on grades, emphasize effort, consistency and growth. When goals feel attainable, children are more likely to stay motivated and feel proud of their progress.

Don’t Forget to Set Personal Goals, Too!

Academics play an important role in your child’s life, but it’s just one aspect of their development. Social and emotional growth affects how children learn, connect and navigate everyday challenges. Talk about goals related to kindness, responsibility, confidence and friendship. This is also a great time to set shared family goals, like spending more quality time together or trying new activities as a family. While there is no set way to measure social or emotional growth, open conversations and check-ins every so often help your child reflect on how they feel they’ve grown. This encourages them to continue being intentional about their goals.

Encourage Daily Habits that Make Goals Doable

When helping your child set goals, also focus on how they plan to work toward achieving them. Simple, everyday habits and small routines, like reading before bed or setting aside time each week to spend with loved ones, turn goals into actionable steps rather than ideas. Tracking progress can keep motivation high. Visual charts, quick check-ins and casual conversations about how things are going keep your child’s goals at the top of their mind and help them stay inspired.

Nurture Independence While Offering Support

When helping your child set or work toward their goals, it’s important to give them some autonomy. This is where you’ll need to strike a balance between independence and guidance. Encourage them to take ownership of their goals while reminding them that you’re always there to support them. Remember to stay flexible and adjust goals as needed, as this helps your child understand that growth isn’t always linear. Celebrate their progress along the way, recognizing small wins and encouraging perseverance.

At Lake Forrest Prep, we focus on teaching the whole child, taking a holistic approach to education. We believe that children who are supported academically, socially and emotionally grow into responsible, moral citizens who contribute positively to their communities. We work closely with our students and their families to ensure each child feels nurtured and supported as they work toward their goals. Learn more about our K-8 private school in Orlando here or contact us online to schedule a tour.