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As the New Year approaches, many people may be thinking about resolutions they can make to improve their lives in 2026.
But to improve children’s lives over the next year, it’s their mums and dads who need to make the resolutions – and experts from the country’s family charities and parenting groups have their own ideas about what they should be.
What suggestions do they have for parents’ New Year’s resolutions…
1. Remember what really matters
Lewis Burke, Editorial Director Restlessness, says: “As we step into the new year, many of us feel pressure to do more than ever before. The noise surrounding modern family life can be deafening, and it’s all too easy to feel like you’re falling short. But what if this is the year we flip the script?
“Instead of adding more to our plates, take things out, let go of the guilt, the comparisons, the endless expectations and tasks. When we bring things back to the things that really matter – smiles and hugs, laughter and just a peaceful bedtime – that’s where family life feels lighter and far more enjoyable.”
2. Reach out to someone affected by pregnancy or infant loss
Jane Coates, director of bereavement support services at the infant-loss charity SandSays: “One The most common thing that bereaved parents tell us is that no one ever talked to them about the loss of them or their child. This can make them feel lonely and isolated.
“Talking about pregnancy and baby loss can be as simple as saying their baby’s name, asking how they are, letting them know you’re there for support. Ask how they would like to be remembered in the coming year. Would they like to talk about their baby?
“So, if you do one thing differently in 2026, please be sure to find the words to talk about pregnancy and baby loss so that together we can help break the silence.”
3. Reconsider your child’s phone choices
mother trap Founder Justin Roberts says: “We hear every day from parents torn between two bad choices: handing their kid a full-fledged smartphone before they’re ready, or cutting them off from the same social and behavioral tools their peers are using. So my pledge to families is to completely rethink the first-phone milestone.
“Instead of accepting that a full-fat smartphone is the only option, consider solutions that match your child’s developmental stage – whether that means a simpler device or a set-up that lets you take control of what they can do online.”
4Get information about toy safety
Katrina Phillips, ceo But Child Accident Prevention Trustsays: “Make this the year you find out which toys are the most dangerous for your little ones. Cheap toys purchased from online marketplaces are more likely to be unsafe. Avoid toys with water beads, small magnets or accessible button batteries, as they can wreak havoc if a child swallows them. Trust your instincts and check the toys. If in doubt, leave them out of the house.”
5. Remember bodies come in all shapes and sizes
Umaira Malik, clinical manager at eating disorders charity Beatsays: “Every January there is an abundance of unhelpful messages about looking a certain way, which can have a negative impact on self-esteem and body image.
‘We will encourage families to make a positive change in 2026 and promote the message that bodies come in all shapes and sizes – perhaps through open conversations together or through a commitment to step away from diet discussions.’
6. Get help and know your rights
Jan van Zyl, CEO of Working Parents Charity working familySays: I would encourage parents and caregivers to seek help, especially when everything feels overwhelming. There are a number of reliable charities that can help you check whether you are receiving all the benefits and entitlements available to you.
“If you are experiencing difficulty finding flexibility with your employer to manage your caring responsibilities, please contact our legal advice service. Being aware of your workplace rights, and feeling empowered to use them, is an important tool everyone should take with them in the new year.”
7. Attentive, loving care means familyAnna Feuchtwang, CEO National Children’s BureauSays: “At this time of year, when we are surrounded by reminders of the importance of families staying together, it can be hard if your life isn’t like that. There are over 100,000 children in the UK care system, and each of them will have their own experience of what an ideal family might look like.
“For the adults in those young people’s lives, it’s a good time to think about how you can pay attention to the children you’re caring for. Listen to what they’re telling you, find ways to give them real choices, even if it’s small things like seeing their siblings more often, or giving them a gift they weren’t expecting. You may not be able to change the system on your own, but you can make a difference in their world.”
8. Less sugar intake, more healthy smile
Dr Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of Oral Health FoundationSays: “We’re encouraging families to make a simple New Year’s resolution: Reduce the number of times your teeth are exposed to sugar each day. Every sugary snack or drink triggers an acid attack on the teeth, so cutting down on the frequency of sugar intake is as important as cutting down on the quantity.
“An easy way to protect the whole family’s smiles is to limit sugary foods and beverages to mealtimes only, rather than obsessing over them throughout the day. It’s a small change that makes a big difference – helping kids and parents start 2026 with strong, healthy teeth.”
9. Include sleep-inducing foods in family meals
Vicki Beavers, CEO The Sleep Charitysays: “Good sleep isn’t just about routine – it’s also linked to what we eat. Certain foods help the body produce melatonin and serotonin, which support restful sleep. Incorporating more sleep-friendly foods into family meals is a good resolution – affordable options like bananas, oats and whole-grain bread are excellent choices. Canned beans and lentils are also budget-friendly and rich in magnesium, which helps relax muscles. Help in giving.
“Instead of expensive snacks, try a sliced banana on toast, or a small bowl of oatmeal with a sprinkle of seeds. Swap out sweet treats for a handful of unsalted nuts, or a slice of wholemeal toast with nut butter. These simple, affordable changes can make a big difference in sleep quality and the well-being of the whole family.”
10. Help kids feel heard
Barry Laker, Head of Service child line London says: “We know how powerful it can be for children when they feel heard, and by regularly resolving to take the time to find out what’s going on with your child, you’ll also be creating a safe space for them to share any concerns. Try to encourage discussion around a range of issues, including online safety, bullying and their mental wellbeing, making it clear that no topic is off limits.”
11. Connect with each other
Daniela Abraham, head of volunteering at the parenting charity nct, says: “Becoming new parents can be a challenging time, but connecting with others in your local community can be a great way to support each other. Call a friend who has recently had a baby, and approach them. Ask how they are and listen without judgement. Whether through friendships, family networks or local groups, feeling connected can help parents share their experiences, reduce isolation and build resilience Is.”