Small wins, big changes – New year resolutions for parents, students and teachers

The start of a new year is a chance to make changes, but let’s be honest: sticking to grand resolutions often feels overwhelming. That’s where the magic of small wins comes in.

For parents:

Spend five minutes with your child asking about their day, truly listening without distractions.

Make conversations about mental health and wellbeing part of everyday life — ask about their day, how they’re feeling, and what’s on their mind. This small change shows your child you’re interested in them, reassures them they’re not alone, and helps them practice thinking and talking about their feelings, giving them the tools to understand themselves and their needs.

For students:

Unplug for 30 minutes a day to boost focus and productivity.

To beat procrastination, try turning off your phone and other distractions for just a short amount of time. Unplugging for just 30 minutes can make a big impact. It’s a realistic and manageable way to reduce distractions, helping you focus better during study sessions. This short time of concentration can improve productivity and mental clarity, especially when balanced with regular breaks.

For teachers:

Prioritise your own wellbeing by spending 30 minutes a day doing whatever makes you happy.

As a teacher, taking just 30 minutes a day to do something that makes you happy — whether it’s reading, cooking, exercising, relaxing, or spending time with friends and loved ones, it can have a huge impact on your wellbeing. This small change helps reduce stress, boosts your mood, and gives you the energy needed to tackle the demands of teaching and life.