All teams have a goal or vision. What is your vision? What is your vision for the school year? What is your child’s vision for the school year? How can you and your child work together to reach the goals your child has set?

Before the school year starts, ask your child "What expectations do you have for yourself?" Help your child, by discussing and sharing your own goals. Have your child formulate a goal for themselves. Post the goal, have your child sign a commitment sheet, and brainstorm strategies to reach the goal.

For example:

Last year Mark had a difficult time riding the school bus, he eventually had to be driven to school by his parents. Discuss with Mark what he can do the first month so he can ride the bus. What rewards will occur after the first month of positive behavior. And how will this positive behavior help Mark in school? Place the goal where he will see it, and discuss the progress made each week. Keeping things simple in a child's world makes life easier for all involved.

Below is a guide designed to help your child plan goals for the upcoming school year, as well as maintain a journal on the success of the journey to reaching the goal.

Name:__________________________________ What was something last year in school you did really well? What were some things that you wish happened last year, but did not? Using the list above, brainstorm with your parent a list of some possible goals you would like to reach this school year. Describe one goal you would like to achieve: When would you like to reach this goal? (specific date. Be kind to yourself!) List all steps you think you will need to support and reach your goal: What do you need to do daily to reach these goals? Keep a journal, writing your goal at the top of each new entry page. Keep a journal of what you did on a daily basis to help reach your goal – celebrate reaching the goal! Write about how you feel about your goal and sign the entry each day. Reward yourself when reaching your goal. Celebrate.

Keep in mind the quotes of these Great Coaches:

"The difference between the impossible and possible lies in a person’s determination."
Tommy Lasorda


"You are never a loser until you stop trying."
Mike Ditka

To model goal setting with your child, choose a goal and work on one for yourself. Have family goals and plan as a family using the discussion process. Follow the same process as your child. This can be a rewarding experience to share for all family members. It also gets your family communicating.