New Year’s Resolutions for Teens with Autism and Their Families
The calendar has flipped to 2025 and fresh starts. It’s the time of year to embrace new opportunities and set meaningful goals. For teens with autism and their families, creating resolutions can be an empowering way to focus on growth, connection, and personal achievements. But let’s face it, sometimes traditional resolutions like “eat healthier” or “exercise more” don’t resonate with you. Instead, think about goals that are adaptable, actionable, and tailored to your teen’s and family's unique strengths.
Here are some of our tips for making resolutions that stick, with ideas for fostering independence, enhancing relationships, and celebrating progress every step of the way.
Why Resolutions Matter for Teens with Autism
New Year’s resolutions are an opportunity to build confidence, develop skills, strengthen bonds, and build connections. For teens with autism, resolutions can provide structure and motivation, helping them navigate challenges while celebrating their individuality.
The key? Choose goals that feel achievable and meaningful. Focus on small, measurable steps that encourage gradual progress rather than one big, overwhelming change.
Set SMART Goals
When crafting resolutions, think SMART:
Specific: What exactly do they want to achieve? Instead of “be more organized,” try “use a planner to track homework and exams.”
Measurable: How will they know when they’ve succeeded? “Apply to at least two jobs a week” is something they can identify and measure.
Achievable: Set goals that are challenging but realistic. For example, “Learn how to prepare one simple meal by the end of each month.”
Relevant: Make sure the goal aligns with their interests and needs, like “Join a weekly art class to meet people and improve my art skills.”
Time-bound: Set a timeline to keep the momentum going. A goal such as “Keep dirty clothes off my floor during the school week” gives flexibility during the weekend while still building useful habits.
SMART goals will help create resolutions that are more concrete and attainable. They can even be written out to hang on their wall, put in their notebook, or in a shared space like the fridge to stay on track.
Resolution Ideas for Teens with Autism
Build Independence
Encourage your teen to take on new responsibilities that match their abilities and interests.
Master a life skill: cooking a simple meal, managing laundry, or budgeting for small purchases.
Explore mobility: Practice navigating familiar routes independently, like being alone at home after school or using public transportation.
Care for a personal workspace: Organizing their room or desk builds responsibility and a sense of pride.
Strengthen Social Connections
Socializing can be challenging, but small, intentional goals can make it feel less intimidating.
Practice greeting others: Start with family or trusted friends, then branch out to peers.
Join a club or activity that aligns with their interests, like art, gaming, or robotics.
Focus on quality relationships: Nurture one or two meaningful friendships rather than trying to expand a large social circle.5. Presentation Matters and First Impressions Count
You might not realize it, but employers notice the little things, like clean clothes, good posture, and polite language. Even if you don’t feel 100% comfortable, showing that you’re trying will make a positive impression.
Avoid complaining about things like school during interviews. Stay upbeat and focus on your skills.
Turn off your phone and avoid distractions. Being present shows respect.
Improve Emotional Regulation
Learning to manage emotions is a lifelong skill.
Create a calm-down routine with sensory items or relaxation techniques when your teen feels overwhelmed.
Practice mindfulness or breathing exercises together as a family.
Set a goal to recognize and label emotions daily. Create a routine and open dialogue for difficult days.
Focus on Quality Work and Stamina
Encourage your teen to take pride in how hard they are working while building endurance for the long run.
Set small, focused goals for schoolwork or chores, such as completing tasks without taking extended breaks.
Celebrate progress, not perfection. It’s important to praise efforts and improvements over flawless results.
Resolutions for the Whole Family
Supporting a teen with autism is a team effort, so why not make resolutions as a family? Here are some suggestions that everyone can enjoy while still being flexible enough to adapt to your own family’s lifestyle.
Dedicate Weekly Bonding Time: Plan regular activities like movie nights, board game evenings, or nature walks.
Prioritize Self-Care: Caregivers need to recharge too! Set aside time for your own relaxation or hobbies.
Collaborate on Goals: Work together to create a checklist for groceries or even life skills if your teen is looking for work.
Think of these goals and resolutions together. Including your teen with autism and their siblings or other family members will motivate them and encourage them to participate with the family.
Tips for Making Resolutions Stick
Start Small
Don’t overcommit. Begin with one or two resolutions and build from there. As your teen and you see your success, it can be more motivating to create more goals for the future.Track Progress
Use visual aids like charts or calendars to celebrate milestones. Celebrate those milestones along the way with special activities like movies or a favorite meal.Embrace Flexibility
Life happens! Adjust your goals as needed to fit your teen’s changing needs or interests.
A Fresh Start at PS Academy Arizona
At PS Academy Arizona, our passion is helping teens with autism reach their full potential. From personalized education plans to life skills training, we’re here to support your family every step of the way. We make sure your teen gets an authentic high school experience while getting to celebrate their authentic selves.
If you’re ready to make this a year of growth and possibility, contact us today to learn more about how we can help your teen succeed.
