Simple Family Resolutions That Actually Stick

Small habits that make everyday life feel a little easier

A new year often brings a natural pause. A chance to reflect, reset, and think about what might make family life feel a bit smoother. Not in a “change everything” way, but in a gentle, realistic one.

These family resolutions aren’t about fixing anything or aiming for perfection. They’re small, everyday habits that can help routines feel calmer and connections feel stronger. Pick one or two to try, skip the rest, and adjust as needed. There’s no right way to do this. Just what works for your family.

Let Kids Help Choose the Weekly Lunch Rotation

One of the easiest ways to reduce lunchbox stress is to give kids a little say.

At the start of the week, sit down together and choose a short list of lunch options. Nothing fancy. Just a handful of meals or components you know they’ll eat, plus maybe one new idea to try.

When kids help decide what’s going in their lunch, they’re more invested. Mornings tend to go smoother, food waste goes down, and everyone feels a little more on the same team.

Share One “Good Thing” From the Day

Some families call this rose and thorn. Others just call it checking in.

Each person shares one good thing from their day and, if they want, one hard thing. It gives kids space to celebrate wins and talk through challenges without feeling like they need to hide the tough stuff.

It’s a simple habit that builds emotional safety and connection, especially on busy school nights.

Give Kids Ownership Over One Daily Responsibility

Kids love feeling capable, and parents love having one less thing to manage.

Choose one small, age appropriate responsibility your child owns every day. For example:

• Unpacking their lunch and water bottle after school
• Putting shoes and backpacks away
• Making a simple after school snack
• Packing napkins or utensils for the next day

Start with just one task and stick with it for a full week. Consistency matters more than adding more.

Try One New Food Together Each Week

Trying new foods doesn’t have to feel like a power struggle.

Once a week, introduce one new food and try it together. One bite is enough. No pressure to like it. Talk about the color, texture, or crunch instead of whether it’s “good” or “bad.”

When kids see adults modeling curiosity instead of expectations, they often feel more comfortable trying new things themselves.

Spend 10 Uninterrupted Minutes Together Each Day

This one is simple, but powerful.

Ten minutes. No phones. No multitasking. Just focused time with your child doing something they choose. Reading, chatting, playing a quick game, or even sitting together.

If it helps, set a timer so you’re not mentally tracking the clock. Those small, consistent moments of attention add up in a big way.

Ask One Thoughtful Question at the Table

Dinner doesn’t have to be long to be meaningful.

Try asking one thoughtful question to spark conversation:

• What made you laugh today?
• What’s something you’re proud of this week
• ?If today had a color, what would it be?

Even one question can turn a quick meal into a moment of connection. This is also an easy habit to build into future routines.

Wake Up 10 Minutes Earlier Together

Mornings set the tone for the whole day, and they often feel rushed before they even start.

Try waking up just ten minutes earlier to enjoy breakfast, a cup of tea, or a quiet moment together. Set a timer so it doesn’t turn into a scramble.

Those few extra minutes of calm connection can make a noticeable difference in how the day begins.

Have a Weekly Family Check In

Once a week, gather for a short family check in. Ten to fifteen minutes is plenty.

• You might talk about:
  • One thing that went well this week
  • One thing that felt tricky
  • What’s coming up next week
  • One small thing each person needs more or less of

Keeping it short and predictable helps kids feel comfortable sharing and helps parents catch small issues before they grow.

Start Small and Keep It Real

This January we are taking it easy - you don’t need to do all of these! Try picking one habit that feels doable right now and test for a week or two. That’s it. Small changes, practiced consistently, are often the ones that last the longest. And remember, family routines don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful! 

Happy New Year!