Developing Realistic And Achievable Goals As A Parent

Parents with child's hand

How do you go about setting goals for parenting? Well, the answer is to think small and be realistic. That’s right – bigger isn’t necessarily better when it comes to parenting goals.

As parents, we all want the best for our children, but it’s important to remember that progress takes time, and small steps can add up to big successes down the line.

Instead of setting big, sweeping goals like “my child will get straight A’s this year” or “my child will be the best-behaved kid on the block”, start by thinking of one achievable goal that you can break down into smaller, actionable steps.

Setting goals for parenting doesn’t have to be about setting goals for your child.

It’s more about what you can do as a parent to become the best parent you can be.

Goals such as “I will read to my child every night before bed” or “I will take 10 minutes each day to just talk and listen to my child” are just as important for you and your relationship.

In this guide, we’ll go over a few tips to help you create realistic and achievable parenting goals.

So, let’s get started!

What Is A Parenting Goal?

A parenting goal is simply a statement of what you would like to achieve as a parent. It could be something small, such as “I will spend 15 minutes each day playing with my child” or something bigger, such as “I will attend all of my child’s soccer games”.

No matter the goal, it should be something that you can realistically achieve and that will help you become the best parent you can be.

Tips For Setting Realistic And Achievable Parenting Goals

  1. Start small. Instead of setting a goal that’s too big to tackle, start with something small and achievable.
  2. Break it down. Once you’ve chosen a goal, break it down into smaller steps. This will make it easier to achieve and keep track of your progress.
  3. Track and measure your progress. Keep track of your progress by writing down the steps you take each day and celebrate when you reach each milestone.
  4. Be flexible. Remember that parenting is an ever-evolving process, so don’t be afraid to adjust your goals as needed.

Examples Of Positive Parenting Goals

Not sure how to get started with your goals for parenting? Here are a few examples to get you started:

  • I will take 10 minutes each day to talk and listen to my child.
  • I will read to my child every night before bed.
  • I will provide positive reinforcement when my child displays good behavior.
  • I will take 15 minutes each day to play with my child.
  • I will attend all of my child’s soccer games.
  • I will set a good example for my child by being respectful and kind to others.
  • I will stay up-to-date on my child’s schoolwork and activities.
  • I will make time each day to connect with my child.

As you can see, setting realistic and achievable goals for parenting doesn’t have to be hard. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can become the best parent you can be!

These goal examples are simple, but they can help you develop stronger relationships and create positive experiences for your child.

How To Set Up Goals With Your Child

Now, you might want to set up goals with your child too.

Setting goals with your child is a great way to help them stay motivated and teach them important life skills.

Start by talking to your child about their interests and goals.

Ask them open-ended questions to get an idea of what they want to achieve and how you can help them reach those goals.

Together, you can create a plan that outlines the steps needed to achieve their goal and how they can measure their progress.

It’s also important to provide encouragement along the way and celebrate their successes.

By setting up goals with your child, you’re helping them develop essential skills for success in the future.

Final Thoughts On Parenting Goals

Setting goals for parenting is a great way to become the best parent you can be.

By setting realistic and achievable goals, you can create positive experiences for your child and strengthen your relationship.

Remember to start small, break down the goal into smaller steps, track and measure your progress, and be flexible.

Also, consider setting goals with your child to help them stay motivated and learn important life skills.

With a little bit of planning and effort, you can make your parenting goals a reality!

Need help with parenting? Schedule a free consultation with me. I’m here to help!

For a more in-depth look at parenting, check out my book.


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Sue Donnellan is a Parenting Specialist and household transformer. She has worked with parents for over 15 years, helping them let go of what isn’t working and replace it with what does. With humor, wisdom and intuitiveness, Sue helps struggling parents emerge on the other side of their overwhelm with the mindset and skills to create a relationship of lifelong trust and respect with their children. 

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