By Alvina Brown


According to Health.com, roughly one-in-three Americans resolve to better themselves in some way in the new year. But often, our resolutions begin to lose momentum about now. One way to keep it up is to challenge your nieces and nephews to join you. Here are three resolutions made for two – or more!

Quit a Bad Habit

Do you and your niece or nephew bite your nails? Do you eat too many of Grandma’s chocolate chip cookies? Watch more TV than you probably should? The best way to curb those bad habits is to keep each other accountable.

Phillippa Lally, a health psychology researcher at University College London, published a study finding that on average, it takes more than two months before a new behavior becomes automatic - that’s 66 days to be exact. So, treat this resolution like an experiment and create a deadline, whether it be eight weeks or eight months. Check in daily or weekly to talk about your progress or setbacks and support and encourage each other. Perhaps make it a friendly little competition with the one who manages to curb her or his bad habit first receiving a prize from the other.

Get Fit and Save Money

If you live near your nieces and nephews and are lucky enough to be able take them to school or their afterschool activity, try biking together, to and fro. Many cities are investing in bike rental stations that are a good solution if you don’t own your own bikes. Plus, spending this time together will not only save on gas, it will bring you closer together as you incorporate a little fitness. Of course, we recommend you invest in helmets and safety pads for all.

While some people join the gym this new year, others are determined to actually go the gym they’ve been a member of for a while. If you don’t use your gym membership, now’s the time to consider canceling it and try free fitness classes. Some local YMCAs and recreation centers often offer free fitness classes that are great for all ages, like swimming. Get your nieces and nephews involved by going to classes that are equally fun and challenging for kids and adults. Finally, YouTube can be your best friend when it comes to trying new workouts. Find workouts you all agree on and move that couch away from the screen and get moving!

Travel More – With the Kids

If your resolution is to travel more, involve your family and friends. If you only went on one family vacation last year, try to make it two, or add a few weekend getaways throughout the year. Many schools have seasonal vacations and national holiday breaks which are perfect for short getaways. Plus, traveling together will not only allow you quality time with your nieces and nephews, it will give you the chance to teach them about the places you visit.

Like most families, Disney World is usually the first option for a kid-friendly vacation but there are plenty of other equally fun places. Keep it local by taking day trips to a neighboring town or state and dig deep into its history and culture.

Finally, get your nieces and nephews involved by asking them what they would like to do or see. By asking the locals, or conducting a simple Google or Pinterest search, you are bound to find endless fun.

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Published January 19, 2016