How to set up goals for your child using “S.M.A.R.T.” (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-Bound).

Harold Robert Meyer and The ADD Resource Center                             01/08/2025

This article is about setting goals for your child using the SMART method. It is also applicable to your child’s IEP, and for you with your own goals.

Specific: Make goals clear and well-defined

• Instead of “get better at math,” use “complete all weekly math homework and improve multiplication tables for numbers 1-12”
• Rather than “read more,” try “read one age-appropriate chapter book each month”

Measurable: Include concrete ways to track progress

• Use numbers, percentages, or other quantifiable metrics
• Example: “Score at least 8/10 on weekly spelling tests” instead of “improve spelling”
• Create simple charts or stickers to track achievements

Achievable: Set goals within your child’s capabilities

• Consider your child’s current skill level and developmental stage
• Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps
• Example: If learning to swim, start with “practice floating for 30 seconds” before moving to “swim one lap”

Realistic: Ensure goals align with available resources and time

• Account for your child’s schedule, energy levels, and other commitments
• Consider available support (tutoring, practice time, materials)
• Example: “Practice piano for 15 minutes each day” rather than an hour if the schedule is already busy

Time-Bound: Set clear deadlines and milestones

• Create both short-term and long-term timeframes
• Include check-in points to review progress
• Example: “Learn to tie shoelaces independently by the end of the month” with weekly practice sessions

Tips for Implementation:

1. Involve your child in the goal-setting process to increase buy-in and motivation
2. Write down goals and display them somewhere visible
3. Celebrate small wins and progress along the way
4. Adjust goals if they prove too easy or too challenging
5. Model goal-setting behavior yourself

© 2025 The ADD Resource Center. All rights reserved. 01/08/2025 

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 Harold Robert Meyer and The ADD Resource Center