20 Healthy New Year’s Resolutions for Kids

01.01.2014

I will clean up my toys and put them where they belong.
I will brush my teeth twice a day, and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.
I won’t tease dogs or other pets – even friendly ones. I will avoid being bitten by keeping my fingers and face away from their mouths.

I will drink milk and water three times each day, and limit soda and fruit drinks to once each day.
I will apply sunscreen before I go outdoors on bright sunny days. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible. I will wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I’m playing sports.
I will try to find a sport (like soccer or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week!
I will always wear a helmet when bicycling.
I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat. I will use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt.
I will be nice to other kids. I’ll be friendly to kids who need friends – like someone who is shy, or is new to my school.
I will never give out personal info on the internet. (Name, home address, school name, or telephone number) Also, I will never send a picture of myself to someone I chat with on the computer without my parent’s permission.

I will eat at least one fruit and one vegetable every day, and I will limit soda to one glass daily.
I will take care of my body through physical activity and nutrition.
I will choose non-violent television shows and video games, and I will spend only one to two hours each day (at the most) on these activities.
I will help out in my community through volunteering, working with community groups or by joining a group that helps people in need.
When I feel angry or stressed out, I will take a break and find smart ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or discussing my problem with a parent or friend.
When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk about my choices with an adult whom I can trust.
When I notice any of my friends struggling or engaging in risky behaviors, I will talk with a trusted adult and attempt to find a way that I can help them.
I will be careful about whom I choose to date, and always treat the other person with respect and without coercion or violence. I will expect the same good behavior in return.
I will resist peer pressure to try drugs and alcohol.
I agree not to use a cell phone or text message while driving and to always use a seat belt.

Reproduced with permission from the American Academy of Pediatrics