The One Brave Thing Challenge: A Fresh New-Year Reset for Kids

Let’s be honest—after two weeks of winter break, every kid in Oklahoma walks back into school like they’ve just returned from a five-year voyage to another galaxy. Teachers sip their morning coffee with the same expression astronauts have before liftoff. Parents are whispering a soft prayer that coats actually come back home. And somewhere in the universe, a school bus driver is steering into the new year like the steady, early-morning legend they are.

But here we are—brand-new year, brand-new semester, and the perfect moment to reset the energy in our homes, our classrooms and our little learners’ hearts. And no, we are not making vision boards. We have glued enough magazine clippings to last a lifetime. Plus, kids somehow always end up cutting out a Lamborghini, a house with 37 bedrooms, and an ice cream machine that prints money. So this year… we’re shaking it up.

Welcome to the “One Brave Thing Challenge”—a simple, clever, joyful reset ritual designed for kids, teachers and families. It’s fun. It’s visual. And best of all, it builds confidence without feeling like another assignment.

Why Brave Things?

Kids don’t always need big goals. Honestly, most adults don’t either. But bravery? That’s something everybody can work on in small, meaningful bursts.

Bravery is raising your hand even when you’re unsure. Trying a new vegetable for lunch. Asking someone new to play. Reading out loud. Speaking up when something feels off. Choosing patience over a meltdown (and that includes us grown-ups).

Brave moments build character. They also build the school culture we all want—one where kids feel proud of themselves for trying, not perfecting.

The Secret Ingredient: Door Hangers

Instead of worksheets or journals, kids create their own mini door hangers. Door hangers hold power—they announce something. They make a statement without saying a word. And for kids? They’re pure magic.

Each child decorates a small door hanger with “My One Brave Thing for January Is…” and fills in their personalized challenge. Teachers hang them together to create a Bravery Hall or Courage Corridor. Families can hang theirs on bedroom doors or kitchen cabinets. The whole thing becomes a visual celebration of courage.

How to Launch the Challenge

Step 1: Talk About Bravery

Start with a conversation: What does it look like to be brave at school? At home? With friends?

Step 2: Pick One Brave Thing

Not three. Not five. Just ONE. A single small action that stretches them.

Step 3: Create the Door Hanger

Use the image as a template to make your door hanger, or create your own. Let kids decorate however they want—stickers, markers, crayons. The more personality, the better.

Step 4: Hang Them Up

Teachers, pin them in a hallway gallery. Parents, hang them at home. Instant pride.

Step 5: Celebrate Tries, Not Triumphs

If a child says, “I didn’t do my brave thing today,” reply: “That’s okay—tomorrow is another chance.” Bravery is measured in attempts, not perfection.

Capture the Courage

Here’s the best part: If your class transforms that hallway into the brightest Bravery Hall in the building, or if your family proudly hangs your “One Brave Thing” at home like it’s the newest piece in a kid-made art museum, we want to see it. Snap your best picture — the bold colors, the big smiles, the sparkle that only kids can create — and send it to tara.rittler@tulsakids.com by January 10, 2026. Your brave crew might just be featured in TulsaKids Magazine. Go ahead and capture the magic, because nothing lights up a picture like a kid who believes in themselves.

A Final Word to the Adults

If kids choose one brave thing, maybe we should, too—whether it’s trying something new, asking for help, setting boundaries or taking rest without apologizing. Bravery belongs to all of us. Here’s to tiny courageous moments that shape big outcomes. Happy New Year!

Dr. Tamecca Rogers serves as Director of Student Access and Success at Tulsa Technology Center. An award-winning author and filmmaker, she is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in all her endeavors. Photo by Denice Toombs-Dotson with Lasting Impressions Photography.