It’s almost that time again, but where your list of resolutions once said “lose five pounds” or “say no to cocktails,” they should now revolve around your children and how you can improve your performance as a parent. Here are five promises everyone should be making to their little ones.

 I will encourage your interests

The next time your little Picasso doodles all over the walls, don’t send them to time out. Buy them a child’s easel instead. The same goes for after-school sports and extracurricular clubs. Try not to scold them too much for muddy cleats or science experiments in the kitchen; remember that one day, they’ll be taking all this interest and enthusiasm off to college, and you’ll long for the afternoons when they covered the counter tops in vinegar and baking soda.

I will stop stressing over imperfection

In twenty years, your kids won’t remember that the cookies were burned or that the Christmas ornaments were all hanging on one side. They’ll only have the memory of shared joy and laughter with you. While it’s important to make time for family activities, it’s equally critical that you don’t succumb to a migraine just because they aren’t perfect imitations of Leave It To Beaver.

I will not do your homework

When it’s hour three of a pile of homework with several more assignments to go, it’s all too easy to just give your child the answers instead of making them work it out for themselves. Resist this urge! Not only are you crippling their academic potential in the long run, but teachers often have very specific problem-solving methods that they want their students to learn, so your shortcuts aren’t doing them any favors at all.

 I will keep you safe

It’s the 21st century, and the world only gets more dangerous with each passing year. If you haven’t already, it’s time to protect your home and your family with security measures like burglar alarms, outdoor motion sensors and home security systems. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst.

 I will show you love every day

When everything is said and done, nothing will matter but the love and affection you offer your children. You’re going to make plenty of mistakes as you guide them into adulthood, but as long as they know they’re the most important pieces of your heart, your bond will be unbreakable.

These are just a few resolutions you should be making this year as a parent. Good luck in 2014, and remember what you read about the Cleavers!