Perhaps you’ve heard that your child has “leadership potential” or isn’t afraid to take charge. You may have observed that they really like to call the shots, and that they’re fond of being listened to. Okay, maybe they even insist on getting their own way most of the time. Before you bemoan the possibility that you may have a bossy kid, take heart. A tendency to want to be the head dog in the sled team can be pretty useful when you’re trying to raise someone to be a thought leader and a critical mind. There a lots of big questions you can play with that will help your little boss kid put their skills to good use.
Try discussing:
- What makes someone a good leader? Is it setting a good example, or just telling people what to do?
- How do we learn to be good leaders? Can we teach others to be good leaders too?
- Is it fair for one person to have all the power and make all the decisions, or do these things need to be divided up? How do we make sure everyone has the same opportunities?
- Is power just about being bigger and stronger, or are there other types of power? Does everyone have their own kind of power?
- If you get to make a decision, are you responsible for what happens because of it?
- Is it a good idea to have just one leader, or do we need several (or many)?
As is the case with all talents, teaching your child to use their drive to lead and make decisions wisely is key. Having them be cognizant of how they’re throwing their weight around, and how their decisions affect others can help them to be effective leaders in sports, in school, and in life in general.
Don’t fret if you have a bossy kid. Bring out the big questions and help them to be the most amazing boss ever!