January is a time to think about the year ahead. As I was cleaning up the Christmas decorations, I was thinking about where I was storing something..thinking about when I would ultimately be unpacking it next year. Then I stopped in my tracks and thought - next year! What will be happening our lives next year? That one moment made me wonder about the next 365 days, how I want to live and what I want to accomplish.
I realized that planning for the year ahead might be a helpful learning moment for my girls. But how could I get them to understand the concept of resolutions? So, I broke it down. I pulled out some paper and coloured pencil crayons and created a New Year acronym for them to complete.

Using their imaginations, they had to come up with something they would try and do or experience in 2012. My eldest daughter came up an interesting list...

I love that she is totally into brussel sprouts and wants to assist others! I don't know about her line about stopping the yelling...I'm sure she isn't referring to me...right?!
And my youngest daughter had a hard time with this one...the concept was a little difficult to understand, but she did her best.
Believe me when I say that I will be holding her to the "wear my hood" resolution...no more battles at the front door. Reid is her cousin, that she loves and thinks is the best!
As for me, I totally inspired by Tinkerlab's 5 Resolutions for a Creative New Year. I have never really loved the idea of resolutions. At least not the typical "lose weight", "eat healty" kind. Those ideas seem so boring to me. Realistically anything I do with my girls does come from some sort of inspiration within me...my personal creative soul. But, do I feed that part of my soul enough? This year I resolve to feed my creative spirit.
More walks - explore the world alone and with my family, time to observe,
think and reflect
Enjoy other people's art - head to more exhibitions and galleries - expose
myself to the wonders that other people imagine
Learn a new skill...knitting or a musical instrument - I'm long overdue for this one
And, I actually have one more resolution...to play outside everyday. This one comes courtesy of Greening Sam and Avery. We already play most days outdoors, so why not commit to being outside everyday! Do you make resolutions? Do you stick to them? Only time will tell how we do in fulfilling our resolutions!
maryanne @ mama smiles says
That resolution idea for kids is a fun one! I have it pinned to try next year.
I set goals by the month instead of the year. They seem more manageable that way. I love your goals!
Thanks for linking up to Learning Laboratory at Mama Smiles =)
maggy, red ted art says
What a fun way to think of New Year's resolutions! Certainly makes it more of a "challenge" to come up with good sentences! Good luck in achieving them all!
Thank you for sharing on Kids Get Crafty!
Maggy