Charlene Roth
Blogger
Being a parent is one of the most rewarding tasks you can take on. Whether your child is in a tough spot or on the up and up, you can make a lasting impact by helping them build leadership skills that carry over well into adulthood. Parents are natural mentors — but that doesn’t mean mentoring is without challenges! Below, Mom’s Choice Awards has provided some simple, proven tips for how you can become an effective youth mentor, either to your own children or another child in need.
Lead By Example
When it comes to helping young people become effective leaders, the best place to start is with yourself!
Lead a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, maintaining a fitness routine, and prioritizing sleep.
Always show respect to others, no matter where you are.
Show interest in many aspects of life and a passion for lifelong learning. Create new career opportunities by returning to school for a degree in education.
Focus on Core Skills
While there are many skills required for being an effective leader, some are more essential than others. Here are a few core leadership skills to focus on as you mentor youth:
Help your child develop strategic thinking so that they can visualize what they want in life and go after it.
Show your child how to plan and organize efficiently, which can be applied in almost all areas of life.
Teach them how to navigate unexpected changes successfully.
Dedicate time to building their communication and people management skills.
Try New Activities
There are countless activities that can help your children develop strong leadership skills. Don’t be afraid to switch it up and try new ones!
Meet once a week—either in person or virtually—to catch up on each other’s lives.
Assign your child a research and presentation project on a topic that interests them. Host a reverse mentoring meeting where your child must teach you how to do something.
Volunteer at a local charity or attend a networking event together to get some quality leadership-focused time.
If you want to make a real difference in your neighborhood, consider applying the same parenting tips mentioned above to mentor youth in need of guidance. That way, you can help raise up the next generation of leaders. And you’ll find that it’s one of the most satisfying roles you can take on!
Mom’s Choice Awards evaluates products and services created for children, families, and educators. The program is globally recognized for establishing the benchmark of excellence in family-friendly media, products, and services. If you have questions, please contact us today!
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About Charlene Roth
Charlene is a stay-at-home mom of four. She’s a chronic worrywart and can’t help but always be concerned for the welfare of her kids. She feels better knowing that she’s taking steps to educate herself – and her children – on how to stay safe in every circumstance she can think of.
View all posts by Charlene Roth here.
