How to Teach Young Children About Goal Setting and Working Toward Goals
Even young children can benefit from learning how to set goals. Whether it’s building a tower without it falling, learning to tie their shoes, or remembering to brush their teeth every day, setting and working toward goals teaches kids focus, perseverance, and self-belief. With fun, visual tools and daily encouragement, children learn that reaching a goal feels rewarding—and that the journey can be fun too!
Why Teaching Goal Setting Matters
- Builds motivation and purpose
- Teaches planning and patience
- Strengthens resilience and effort
- Supports independence and follow-through
- Celebrates effort, not just outcomes
Option 1: Set Short, Achievable Goals Together
Activity Idea:
Sit with your child and set a simple, age-appropriate goal like:
- “Brush my teeth every morning for 5 days.”
- “Put my shoes on by myself all week.”
Use a sticker chart to track progress each day and celebrate at the end!
What Kids Learn:
- How to set and track goals
- The joy of working toward something
- Responsibility and routine
Tool Suggestion:
Make a “My Goal Chart” with pictures, checkboxes, or stickers they can place after each step is completed.
Option 2: Use Visual Goal-Tracking Tools
Activity Idea:
Create a progress ladder or path—each step brings your child closer to the finish line.
For example, draw 5 stepping stones that lead to a reward like a special storytime or activity.
Every day they practice the goal, they move a marker one step forward.
What Kids Learn:
- Visual motivation
- That small steps lead to big accomplishments
- Progress is just as important as the result
Book Suggestion:
The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires — teaches kids that trying, failing, and trying again is part of reaching a goal.
Other Ways to Reinforce the Lesson
- Celebrate effort, not perfection: “You practiced tying your shoes so carefully today. That’s progress!”
- Let your child choose the goal: Giving them ownership boosts motivation.
- Talk about your own goals: Model the process: “I’m working on remembering to drink more water each day!”
- Use countdowns or goal jars: Add a marble or sticker for each step completed toward a big goal.
Final Thoughts
Goal setting teaches children that their efforts matter—and that they are capable of growing, learning, and achieving things on their own. Through visuals, support, and small wins, they learn how to plan, work steadily, and feel proud every step of the way. These early lessons build a mindset of perseverance that lasts a lifetime.