I am a big believer in teaching kids leadership skills at an early age. My belief is that as followers of Christ, we are to lead others nearer to Him in all that we do. This sometimes requires stepping out of our comfort zone or doing the unpopular thing or making difficult choices. So, to teach these skills, I often point out other leaders, especially kids and youth. I also recognize when my children or others display leader qualities like speaking up for themselves in an appropriate way, helping others or taking responsibility for their negative actions. Like anything we want our children to learn, the best method is to show them concrete examples in our own actions and to discuss the topic often. Try these ideas with your own children at home.

Follow the Leader

Play an old favorite game — "Follow the Leader." Choose one person to be the leader and do what he or she does as the rest of the family follows along behind (hop, put your hands on your head, flap your arms, sing, etc). Take turns being the leader.

Ask:  Which did you like best — being the leader or a follower?

When you were the leader, what did you need to remember? (To do things that others could do, not to leave the others behind, to think about others, etc.)

Why is it important for a leader to think about others? (So the others will not get discouraged and quit following.)

God gave some guidelines for leaders in 1 Peter 5:1-9 (willing, be an example, humble, prayerful, self-controlled). Remind your kids that they can be a good leader among their friends by knowing the right thing to do and having the courage to do it.

Special Assignment

One of the best ways to develop leadership in your kids is to give them a small assignment and let them gather others to help. Pick one to be in charge and let them plan a simple party, have a lemonade stand or even "decorate" for dinner. Help the "leader" to make a list of the things that needs to be done and to practice asking others to help without being too bossy. Help the others learn to submit to a leader with a good attitude.