Top 10 New Year's Resolutions

As the new year comes around, I’m already thinking about the resolutions I plan to make, keep and hopefully not forget. Maybe you’re doing the same! Perhaps you want to lose the holiday weight or finally run the Honolulu Marathon. Maybe you want to make more time to help your kid with his homework. Or, as parents with children who have specific challenges or developmental disorders, your resolutions are broader, with a hopeful perspective.

According to a survey in 2013, these are the top 10 most common resolutions made by parents who have kids with autism. (https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2013/01/18/top-10-new-year%E2%80%99s-resolutions-myautismteam-parents) The survey took place three years ago, and although the results were gathered only from families who have kids on the spectrum, I think they apply to all of us.

1.      I will develop my child’s areas of strength.

2.      I will take things one day at a time.

3.      I will be a stronger advocate for my child at his/her school or with healthcare providers.

4.      I will explore new therapies for my child.

5.      I will be part of a strong social network for emotional, social, and informational support.

6.      I will make more time for my spouse and myself.

7.      I will exercise more.

8.      I will start looking at things from my child’s perspective.

9.      I will manage my own anxieties about social situations with my child.

10.  I will be vigilant in monitoring and managing my child’s progress.

Do you have any other resolutions that you have in mind? Where do you see 2017 going for your child and for your family as a whole? Let me know…and happy new year!