From Bright Horizons
New Year's Resolutions for Parents: A Modest Proposal for 2006

The beginning of a new year is a time to look forward with optimism. It's a chance to become a better person - a better parent, spouse, friend, and perhaps another chance to become thinner, fitter, more worldly, or more ___________________ (fill in the blank with your own aspiration). The start of a new year also offers new opportunities for guilt. With all the pressure to become a perfect parent-from external sources as well as self-imposed-suggesting any resolutions is a risky business, but here goes:

1. Say yes more: to spending time and doing things together.
2. Say no more: to "I want," " I need," "Everyone has it," and "Everyone does it." If nothing else, say no to a television in a child's room.
3. Worry less: about all the highly sensationalized menaces that exist out there, lurking in wait for you and your children. The overwhelming odds are with you to come through the year just fine (but drive carefully - without the cell phone).
4. Listen more to your children and talk at them less: Ask "What do you think?" "What are you feeling?" "Tell me about it" and "What would you do?"
5. Explain a little more, negotiate a little less: Our kids deserve to know the thinking behind our decisions and expectations, but they should not expect to be equal partners at the bargaining table. We are the parents.
6. Read a little more: to your child, with your child, in front of your child - books, magazines, newspapers, notes.
7. Write a little more: notes of love, recognition, encouragement, responsibility, daily appreciation of life.
8. Expect a little more: good behavior, responsibility, manners, kindness, and all of the goodness that lies within our children.
9. Expect a little less: constant scheduling and enrichment-filled days. Children need a lot of slow to grow.
10. Connect more: to family, friends, the community, those who are less fortunate, and the natural world.
And remember: Give yourself credit every time you make small steps and do the right thing.