The short answer
Sankalpa turns an action into a conscious sacred undertaking. It is not a wish list or a guarantee of results; it is a disciplined declaration of intention before worship begins.
Why identity and place matter
Traditional Sankalpa language situates the worshipper within time, place, family and sacred purpose. This reflects a Vedic view that religious action is not abstract: it is performed by a particular person or family, in a particular place, at a particular moment.
What families need to provide
For many ceremonies the priest may ask for names, gothra when applicable, birth star or other personal details, the city of the ceremony and the reason for the observance. Only the information actually needed should be shared, preferably privately.
Why younger participants should understand it
Explaining Sankalpa in plain English before a ceremony helps children recognize that the family is not merely repeating Sanskrit sounds. The family is consciously stating why it has gathered and to whom the worship is offered.
What varies
The exact wording and level of detail differ by Vedic school, region, sampradaya and ceremony. A family should follow the form used by its qualified priest rather than mixing formulas from unrelated sources.
This page explains family-facing principles. Exact practice can differ by sampradaya, Vedic tradition, region and family custom. Shri Venugopal Shastry can clarify what applies to your ceremony.