It’s the beginning of a fresh new year. Your challenges this year are sure to be different from last year. A year makes a huge difference in a baby or young child’s life. And you may have a new addition since last year.

This is a great time to reflect on your parenting goals and challenges. Why not take a few minutes and consider what you would like for your child this year?

1. What are the one or two most important things you want your child to learn this year?

What would you have to change in order for him/her to learn these things?

2. What are the one or two most important things you want your child to experience this year?

How could you make these happen?

3. What is the biggest problem you and your husband or wife have regarding your children?

What needs to happen for that problem to be resolved?

4. What is your greatest joy with your child or children?

How can you build memories around this activity or experience?

5. How can you keep these ideas alive and active throughout the year?

My greatest desire for you this year is that you would be able to enjoy your children more. It is easy to get into a rut, just doing what needs to be done at the moment and rushing from one event to another. Too many activities and too little time together can sap the joy out of our relationships.

How you treat your child today can be a foundation block or a stumbling stone in his future. Use the moments you have to imprint your values in your child’s life. Try to increase your use of teachable moments and reduce your expressions of frustration.

Make the effort to find at least one thing to treasure every day with each child. Tell your child when they do something right or good or generous. When you pray with your child, remember to thank God for the good things you see in that child. Don’t get fixated on what it is that needs to change.

May God abundantly bless you and your family this year!