Every start of the new year, we sit our three sons down and have a goal setting activity – listing out our goals for the year and for life. Writing down the goals help identify the steps to achieving them and to keep the timeline in-check. Other than annual academic goals (which I insist since they are students), they have non-academic goals like ‘get a yellow belt for Judo’ and ‘get my driving licence’ (yes, the youngest son, 5,  is involved too). The goals are pinned up next to their bed. When they achieve a goal, they put a smiley face next to it. – Vicky Chong

“We inevitably doom our children to failure and frustration when we try to set their goals for them” – Jess Lair

To support your children in achieving their goals, make sure that the goal set is attainable. During the process, plan how to achieve it. Help them to review the steps and encourage them along the process. Encourage your children to set a time table. When they achieve each little step, motivate them with a hug, a word of praise or a little reward. Do not blame them even if they fail to achieve the goal and let them know they can always try again. – Sheila

Setting a goal is an uphill task for a child of tender age. What I did for my girl was to help her break the goal into little milestones so it is more achievable and less intimidating. With that, we work out a schedule to meet these little milestones. And in no time, she will realise she is not too far away from achieving her goal. I give her a lot of encouragement and support along the way. Sometimes, I also throw in a reward to motivate her further. – Cindy Tan

It should be the goal of THE CHILD, not the parents. Parents should support and guide the child to see what he can achieve and not just meet the parents’ expectations. As a mother, I will help my young child by planning his learning process and create a step-by-step guide for him. It is very crucial to be supportive and encouraging along the way to build the resilience in him. As he grows older, he will have a mind of his own and have more self-awareness. Parents play the role of a lighthouse that points out any dangers and guides him to the right path. – Poh Xian

Editor’s Note: Thank you Vicky, Sheila, Cindy and Poh Xian for your contributions. A big thank you to all who took the time to submit your views. We invite you to participate in our next issue of  ‘Your Say’.

For next issue’s Your Say, we are having a kids special. So share with us what you think is the most effective way to teach kids good old fashion values such as respect and integrity. Fill in the form below to let us know what you think. Your contribution might just be featured on MathsExCEL newsletter! All participants will be eligible for a parent-child reward gift vouchers.

MathsExCEL Your Say April 2014 Issue