Parents, teachers need to guide children in setting their goals

Setting goals is a way of helping a child focus their mind and make better choices. [iStockphoto]

One of the most important ways parents and educators can assist students in their school careers is by instilling an understanding of the importance of setting goals from an early age, and tracking their progress against these goals throughout their school careers.

Goal setting is often viewed as something that is introduced later in life - even as late as when a student gets ready for tertiary education. It should not be left until then. The sooner the practice can be introduced into young people's lives, the better.