Leadership

I was 'e' ing about 'leadership' this morning with a friend. It seemed appropriate to c/p our post here from another website where we had originally posted; We would love for you to comment and share your ideas!   Vision Forum had a very good webinar this week on Leadership. This is something that Brett and I talk about often.  It is important in our family because, having so many children we tend to be a 'big' presence wherever we go. Too, as a family we do a lot of things in a lot of places and they do not have the luxury of always being surrounded by Christian people. Also, in order for our children to be holy, remain pure and not be followers they must in some capacity be leaders.

  What we are learning... First of all, every one of our children (and yours) are leaders in some way. Be it good or bad or effective or ineffective! What I mean by that is, non leadership can lead others to inactivity as well. For example, if our children are not willing to stand up and lead a conversation to be profitable in a group situation, then they are encouraging others to stay ineffecive and quiet also.

  One thing Doug Phillips does with his children is; he tells them "Ok son, when that group of kids comes over be sure and lead the conversation to be profitable and God honoring".

  One thing we do, is we tell our little boys, "when those  boys come over, be sure that there is no unkindness toward the little ones by anybody", or we tell our older girls "When you go to your friends house with the girls be sure and steer the conversation away from a lot of unnecessary 'boy' talk".

  These may sound like over simplified ways to teach our children leadership skills but I have seen time and again where my children have set the 'tone' in a group setting. Not in an overbearing prideful way either. As well, most of all, they must first be able to lead by example.

  What are some ideas you have for teaching children leadership skills?