Back-to-school season is an exciting time—filled with seeing old friends, starting new activities, and establishing routines that will set your students up for success. Much like the start of a calendar year, the beginning of school is an ideal time to think about what your family hopes to achieve in the coming year.
Helping your children grow in character, contentment, generosity, and compassion are goals far more valuable than getting good grades because their returns will be felt long after a diploma is in hand.
As we enter a new school year, here are a few goals our SPG financial advisors have set for their own students.
- Ben Taatjes, father to college-aged daughters: “Our girls set their own goals now, but Megan and I are praying for their confidence and identity to be found in Christ rather than what they will do for work. Our only goal is to see them develop into young women who will make a difference in the Kingdom and their own families someday.”
- Claire Molden, mother to elementary & middle school sons: “I hope our boys will continue to grow in kindness and challenge themselves with new experiences and opportunities. This year, Lawson wants to improve at division, help kids at school who need a friend, and become the fastest runner in his class (he’s currently the third fastest, according to him.) Graeme wants to aim for all As and Bs, improve his time management skills, and save money for something he wants (which changes weekly).”
- Kendra Peterson, mother to daughters not yet in school: “We are focused on cultivating generosity in our girls—by sharing well, donating old toys, giving gifts to others, and volunteering time as a family. We’re also encouraging their problem-solving skills and being truthful.
Setting goals is a great way to model stewardship for your children—because responsibly managing your time, talent, and treasure requires having a plan. Be sure yours focuses on worthwhile investments with long-term returns.