How to Set Learning Goals for Children for the Year Ahead

At the start of a new year, we might be setting ourselves resolutions about fitness or wellbeing, but it’s also a great time to support children in setting their own learning goals. This doesn’t mean adding pressure or creating strict academic targets. Instead, it’s about building confidence, curiosity and a sense of ownership over their learning.

Recent research shows that when young children are supported to set simple, age appropriate goals, their motivation and performance can improve by around 25%, a huge boost for something that can be done in a playful, positive way.

Setting goals can help children understand themselves better, notice their strengths and feel proud of what they can achieve. Here’s how to make the process fun, meaningful and supportive for children of all ages…

 

 

Start With Reflection, Not Resolutions

Before jumping into goals, begin by reflecting on the year that has passed. Children benefit from celebrating what has gone well, even small achievements.

You might ask:

• What did you enjoy learning this year?

• What was something that felt tricky but you kept trying?

• What made you feel proud?

If your child struggles to answer, try pointing them in the right direction: “I noticed how much more confident you’ve become at reading aloud,” or “You worked really hard to learn your times tables.” Recognising effort (not just outcomes) builds resilience and a growth mindset. This gentle reflection helps children identify what matters to them and what they might like to build on in the new year.

 

 

Choose Goals That Belong to Your Child

Children engage best with goals they feel connected to, not those handed to them. Rather than saying, “You should improve your handwriting,” try:

• Is there something you’d like to get even better at?

• What would you like to be able to do by the end of the year?

• What would make learning more fun for you?

For younger children, it might be something simple such as learning to zip their own coat or remembering to tidy toys. Older children might choose a reading challenge, learning a new skill, or building confidence with a particular subject.

When children choose their goals, they develop ownership and self-driven motivation which are key ingredients for meaningful learning.

 

 

Keep Goals Small, Clear and Realistic

A goal such as “get better at maths” is too general to give children a clear direction. Breaking it down helps children know what they’re working towards. For example:

• Instead of “read more,” choose “read one new book each month.”

• Instead of “be tidier,” try “put toys in the basket before dinner each day.”

• Instead of “improve handwriting,” try “write one neat sentence each weekend.”

These small steps give children achievable wins. Success boosts confidence, which fuels motivation to keep going.

 

 

Use Play to Bring Goals to Life

Learning goals become fun when they are woven into everyday play. Children learn best when they are relaxed, curious and enjoying themselves.

Here are some playful ways to support common goals:

• For reading confidence: Create a cosy reading den, take turns reading jokes or introduce fun magazines.

• For maths skills: Use board games, cooking measurements or pocket money counting.

• For communication: Encourage storytelling with toys, puppets or drawings.

• For resilience: Play games that involve taking turns, patience or coping with losing.

• For physical confidence: Turn walks into ‘adventures’ or set playful physical challenges like obstacle courses.

 

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Children thrive on encouragement, so it’s important to notice and celebrate effort. Rather than waiting until a goal is fully achieved, point out the small steps along the way:

• “You kept trying, even when it was tricky.”

• “You remembered to practise without being asked. You took responsibility.”

• “I can see how much you’re improving.”

Celebration doesn’t need to be a grand gesture. A high five, a sticker or a small treat can mean a lot. It’s also normal (and healthy) for goals to change. If something no longer feels relevant or enjoyable, adapt it together.

 

 

A Fresh Start Filled With Possibility

With gentle guidance, a focus on strengths and plenty of play, children can step into the year feeling empowered and excited about what they can achieve. These positive habits will encourage them to stay engaged, try new things and celebrate their progress.