Make a Difference Monthly was a mission I started back in April of 2012. Writing about a certain character trait each month so that parents, teachers and caregivers can have resources to turn to when teaching children about character. At the beginning, I had a ton of bloggers link up their ideas and since then it’s dwindled down. So, I am no longer treating this like a linky party but still plan to post my own resources and links to other resources.
To start the new year, I am going to talk about the character trait Leadership.There are four simple ways to teach young children about Leadership.
1. Role Models
Introduce them to leaders in our world and in the community. You can do this through children’s literature, visiting a local museum or giving examples at their age level as to what attributes made this particular person a leader! Stay tuned later this month for a list of elementary aged books appropriate for introducing children to leaders.
2. Communication
Teaching children to communicate is important when it comes to being in a leadership role. When I taught first grade, I played a game with my students to help them with language development. This same game is now available in toy stores! It is called Hedbanz. Children wear an object on their head where they can not see it. They have to ask the other players yes and no questions in order to narrow down what the mystery object is on their head. The game requires critical thinking. It requires being able to think of yes and no questions. All very important skills we need when we are in a leadership role.
3. Plan
Being able to plan a large task is in the job description of leaders. Include your child in planninng events that are meaningful to them as they grow up. For example, have your child help you plan for their birthday party and teach them that planning for big events can be broken down into smaller tasks. I know this is how I plan for parties around here. I start a few months prior and write a long list of everything that needs to be done. I do a little at a time!
4. Compromise
Being able to share is a tough task to learn, but it is a skill we all need to know. In our relationships at home and at work, we need to be able to compromise. Adults can help model sharing with preschoolers. Once children are in elementary school, they should be able to create a plan with their peers on how to share a certain toy or game.
Picture credit: Pinterest