Now that we are finding or rhythm as a family of six, its important that we make resolutions as a family. January is by far the perfect time to talk to the kids about realistic resolutions that they need to work towards. It's up to us as parents to mold our children to be awesome loving human beings.

Here is our families top 5 priorities for 2017

Unplug

Disconnecting from my virtual world and plugging into my real one is the priority for all of us. I wrote a post about this a while back and it still rings true. Our phones, tablets, computers have become our everything and when we stick to the rule as a family to shut everything off, we feel more connected as parents. We get to read with the kids, focus more on conversations with fewer distractions and really be present with one another. I also want our kids to talk about three awesome things that happened each day. I want them to see and embrace the positive in the world.

Healthier choices

From diet to exercise, New Years is always the perfect time to invest in yourself. There is no better investment than working on YOU! I try to tell my kids their body is a vessel and they have to feed and nourish and take care of themselves. Having those conversations about what they put into their body and getting outdoor play truly helps them be more aware. When we were kids, we ate skittles and starburst without ever thinking about how bad it is for you, so instead of just letting them eat the candy, we talk about the ingredients. A good way I will instill healthier choices with my brood is in the grocery store. By letting them choose the vegetables and entrees to cook, gets them more involved in what they eat.

And as far as exercise is concerned, my husband and I try to get to the gym four days a week and having the children see us take care of our bodies will definitely mold them into making exercise a priority later in life.

Donating

My kids are growing up a lot different from Bobby and I . I have mentioned many times in the past that we come from humble beginnings and our kids have a lot more than we did. Though I do see their appreciation with what they have, I do feel donating is an important lesson for them. At the end of each month for 2017, we will be doing a "clean out" of their rooms. They will make bags of the clothes, toys and other items that they would like to donate to church. It makes me really happy to see them get excited about this. Its our job as parents, to not just spoil them, even though its easy, but rather expose them to helping those in need.

Date Night

I think its important to all go out as a family, but having some alone time with my husband is also a must. As much as I desire to go out with him alone, I find myself on a date with 6 of us, instead of one. I wrote a story on the TODAY Show Parenting Team about my doctor's orders to date my husband, now would be the perfect time I listen her advice and get those movie tickets, paddle board sessions or even a nice dinner out in line.

Support Your Friends

I love when I feel the support of my friends, so its important I talk about my kids supporting theirs. Sure, they are young, but I want them to be more like cheerleaders of the human race. Even if they don't relate to their friends sports or their choices in books, I want them to be kind and appreciate their differences. Some ways I do this is by teaching them to listen and give good feedback, don't judge or be rude if someone is doing something they don't relate to. Always be kind! Great parents, raise great kids.. Right?

Slowing down and appreciating each day is another priority on my family list. I want to space out my calendar and not feel so rushed. It's not easy being a parent to four children. I want them to know and feel they are the priority because they are. Everything else can wait.

This life we live is precious and amazing. I am hoping for all of us to appreciate each day and make our footprint count. Hopefully these five new family goals will get more smiles and get our family kick started on a brand new 2017! What are you doing this year? I would love to hear from you! Comment below!