The start of a new year is a perfect time to reflect, reset, and build healthy habits for your family. For families with young children, small changes can create a big impact on their growth, development, and overall happiness. Here are some ideas to help you and your little ones start the year off right, along with resources available in Travis County to support your journey.
1. Establish a Family Routine
Children thrive on consistency, and routines provide them with a sense of security. Start the year by creating predictable daily schedules that include time for meals, play, learning, and rest. You can even create a visual schedule with pictures for your child to follow.
Resource:
- Child Inc Family Advocates can help you develop routines tailored to your family’s needs. Reach out to your advocate for support and tips.
2. Make Nutrition a Priority
Healthy eating is foundational to a child’s development. Encourage your children to try new fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and involve them in meal preparation.
Resource:
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program) in Travis County provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthy food for eligible families. Visit WIC Travis County for more information.
- Central Texas Food Bank offers free groceries through mobile food pantries. Learn more at Central Texas Food Bank.
3. Emphasize the Importance of Sleep
Good sleep habits are essential for children’s mental and physical development. Set regular bedtime routines that include calming activities like reading a story or listening to soft music.
Tip: Keep screens out of the bedroom and limit screen time an hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
4. Read Together Daily
Reading together not only strengthens your bond but also builds your child’s language and literacy skills. Make storytime a daily habit, even if it’s just for 10-15 minutes.
Resource:
- Check out free or discounted children’s books from BookSpring or Austin Public Library. Many libraries offer storytimes in both English and Spanish.
5. Get Active Outdoors
Physical activity is vital for young children to develop motor skills and burn off energy. Take advantage of local parks or just spend time outdoors playing games like tag or scavenger hunts.
Resource:
- Austin Parks and Recreation Department offers free or low-cost outdoor spaces and family-friendly activities. Find parks near you at Austin Parks.
6. Foster Social-Emotional Learning
Helping children recognize and express their emotions builds confidence and resilience. Practice talking about feelings and encourage your child to share how they feel in different situations.
Resource:
- Integral Care in Travis County offers parenting classes and mental health resources to support emotional well-being for children and families. Visit Integral Care to learn more.
7. Explore Learning Opportunities for Parents
The new year is also a great time for parents to pursue personal goals. Whether you’re interested in improving your English, earning your GED, or learning a trade, there are programs to support your journey.
Resource:
- Austin Community College (ACC) offers free or low-cost GED, ESL, and workforce training programs. Learn more at ACC Continuing Education.
- Texas Workforce Solutions provides job training and career services for parents looking to enter or advance in the workforce. Visit Workforce Solutions for more information.
8. Practice Gratitude as a Family
Start a family tradition of sharing what you’re thankful for each day. This simple habit teaches children to focus on the positive and builds a sense of appreciation.
9. Prioritize Health Checkups
The new year is an excellent time to schedule medical, dental, and vision checkups for your family. Staying on top of health needs ensures that your child is ready to learn and grow.
Resource:
- Community Care Clinics of Central Texas offer low-cost or free healthcare services for families. Visit Community Care Clinics for locations.
- Child Inc can help families establish medical and dental homes to meet their healthcare needs. Contact your Family Advocate for assistance.
10. Build Community Connections
Engaging with other families provides support and a sense of belonging. Attend local events, parenting workshops, or playgroups to meet others in your community.
Resource:
- Any Baby Can offers parent education programs and community support for families in Travis County. Visit Any Baby Can for details.
Starting the year with healthy habits can set the tone for a brighter future for your family. Remember, small changes add up, and you don’t have to do it alone. Take advantage of the many resources available in Travis County to support you on this journey.
Happy New Year from Child Inc! Together, let’s make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and joy for you and your little ones.
