You know how Merriam-Webster has its “Word of the Year,” now your family can have it too! The start of a new year brings fresh energy, new possibilities, and exciting opportunities to grow. One of the most powerful—and simplest—ways to help kids stay focused and confident throughout the year is by letting them choose their very own Word of the Year.

This activity isn’t about making resolutions or big promises.
It’s about helping kids find a meaningful word they can return to all year long,
a word that guides their choices, inspires their growth, and reminds them of the kind of person they want to be.

And when the whole family joins in, something magical happens:
You learn more about each other, you create connection, and you begin the year with shared intention.

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Why Kids Should Pick Their Own Word of the Year

Choosing a personal word helps kids:

• Build self-awareness

• Strengthen confidence

• Practice intentionality

• Connect their actions to values

• Feel ownership over their behavior and goals

When kids pick their own word, it gives them something powerful to focus on, whether they’re navigating friendships, facing challenges, learning new skills, or building resilience.

A child’s Word of the Year becomes a quiet guide, a whisper of encouragement they can lean on during big emotions, tricky moments, or exciting new experiences.

Some popular words kids might choose include:
Brave, Kind, Patient, Curious, Helpful, Confident, Strong, Honest, Creative, Calm

And some come up with wonderfully unique ones, such as:
Shine, Dream, Bloom, Spark, Laugh, Grow

 

How to Make It a Family Activity

Choosing a Word of the Year becomes even more meaningful when the entire family participates. Here’s how to make it a special night together:

1. Gather as a Family

Sit together at the kitchen table or the living room. Bring markers, paper, or index cards.
Ask everyone—adults included—to think of one word they’d like to focus on this year.

2. Ask Guiding Questions

Kids sometimes need help identifying their word. Try prompts like:

• “How do you want to feel this year?”

• “What’s something you want to get better at?”

• “What matters most to you?”

• “What word makes you feel strong or excited?”

Let kids think for a moment or draw if they’re not ready to write.

3. Reveal Your Words Together

Have each family member share the word they chose and why they chose it.
This part is where true connection happens. You may hear things you didn’t expect—little hopes, quiet fears, new dreams, or personal strengths they want to explore.

4. Celebrate Matching (or Similar) Words

If two or more people pick the same word, celebrate it!
It might lead to sweet conversations about shared goals or beautiful opportunities to encourage each other throughout the year.

5. Display the Words

Hang each person’s card somewhere visible—
the fridge, a bedroom door, or even inside a journal.
Seeing their word daily keeps kids focused and motivated.

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What Kids Learn from Choosing a Word

This activity helps children:

• Understand feelings

• Set intentions

• Think about who they want to become

• Take pride in their choices

• Share openly with their family

And for parents, it’s a window into your child’s heart.

Sometimes you discover:
A quiet kid choosing Brave
A busy kid choosing Calm
A helper choosing Kind
A dreamer choosing Shine

Each word tells a story—and helps you understand how best to support them throughout the year.

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Family Tradition Tip

Each month, revisit your family’s words.
Ask:

• “How has your word helped you this month?”

• “Is there something new you want to try using your word?”

• “Do you want to keep this word or choose a new one?”

This brief reflection enhances emotional intelligence and helps keep your family connected.