Having a SMART criteria for goal-setting can help in evaluating their goal progress and achievement in the future:
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Specific: clearly-defined goal
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Measurable: how the progress will be measured
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Achievable: a realistic goal is set
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Relevant: a goal based on their interests and values
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Time-bound: set a deadline for achieving the goal
An example of a simple would be, “I want to get better at reading” but a SMART goal will be “I want to improve my reading skills by completing one book each week until the end of the year”.
4. Break Goals into Smaller Steps
Help children break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the process less overwhelming and allows them to have mini-celebrations every time they make progress on their goals.
5. Create Visual Goal Trackers
As children may have shorter attention spans, having a visual cue to remind them of their goal and progress can help remind them where they’re currently at and the milestones they have achieved.
6. Regular Check-ins
Having regular check-ins with children to discuss their progress towards their goals can let you know if the child needs extra support or if they want the goal to be re-aligned. Celebrate successes together and reassess any challenges they may be facing.
Encouraging Resilience Through Goal-Setting
A goal means not only facing success but also setbacks. Goal-setting and facing challenges as they progress is a great way to help build a child’s resilience when faced with challenges. Here are some strategies on how to help children learn how to handle setbacks when pursuing their goals:
1. Emphasise Effort over Outcome
Teach children that effort is just as important as achieving the final result. Praise them for trying hard, and encourage them especially when they don’t succeed right away.
2. Model Resilience
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