Straight from the Horse's Mouth: The New Year's resolutions your child wishes you'd make.

When thinking about New Year's resolutions, we often look for things that will make us better. But have you ever given some thought on how you can show up better as a parent? Who best than our own children to tell us where they would like to see us thrive as parents? We asked, and their wish list will surprise you!

This month's newsletter will take on a different format as I share the most frequent answers children gave for what they wish their parents would focus on in the new year. These insights might just inspire a New Year’s resolution you never expected!

#1: Less time online

Seven out of ten children believe their parents spend too much time online! This is a stark reminder that while we worry about our children’s screen time, they are quietly observing ours. Our actions set the example they follow, shaping their habits and priorities far more than our words ever could.

What changes in your habits can you commit to in 2025 that will set a healthier example for your child when it comes to screen time?

#2: Working with them without taking over

Children cherish moments when parents help without taking over. This offers guidance while letting them take the lead. Whether they are building a Lego set or completing a school project, honoring their efforts and process over the final result builds confidence and fosters independence.

What things can you do throughout the new year that will allow you to let go of expecting perfection from your child?

#3: Keeping promises

While parents are sincere in their promises, children remember deeply when those promises are broken. Whether you promised they could pick a TV show for family night or a trip to the park, treating your promises like a serious contract (and discussing any changes if you cannot honour them) builds trust and respect.

This is also a great time to teach how "fairness" does not mean that every person receives the same. This helps them understand why the older siblings can go to bed or stay out later, for example.

What can you do in 2025 to make sure you will be able to keep your promises?

#4: Surprises

Children light up when their parents surprise them, not with grand gestures, but with small, thoughtful acts. Forget the big trips around the world or the large and expensive gifts. Making star-shaped pancakes for brunch or letting them stay up later one night to watch a movie - these simple moments become cherished memories as long as you are fully present for them (I am referring you back to #1 with this one).

For 2025, reflect on how you can surprise your child with these small but impactful moments they will cherish for a lifetime.

Learning about how our children need us to show up for them can truly open up our eyes to the kind of New Year's resolutions we should be focusing on in 2025. While it is important to reflect on how to better ourselves in the new year, why not also better ourselves for the people that matter to us the most - our children?

Your Voice Matters

Hearing how children truly want their parents to show up for them, which points spoke to you the most? Share them in the comments.