Lisa Pawlak
Discover the Importance of Leadership Skills Now more than ever, we’re seeing that individuals who possess leadership skills tend to be more successful in overcoming adverse circumstances. It’s important to teach our kids to be leaders, as there are benefits in all aspects of life –– including academics, career, personal relationships, and even self-esteem. While some people appear to be natural-born leaders, you may be surprised to learn that the majority of successful leaders take intentional measures to develop these important skills. This is great news since it means everyone has leadership potential. Kids and teens possessing leadership traits have more opportunities to make a positive impact on the community and people around them. Effective skills of a leader include the ability to: • Think strategically • Communicate well with others • Show discipline and self-control • Give (and receive) constructive feedback • Inspire and mentor others • Demonstrate courage and confidence • Be compassionate towards others • Overcome challenges Summer is the perfect time to work on developing these skills and participation in a teen leadership program is an excellent way to learn responsibility, explore real world job skills, build an impressive resume, and add substance to future college applications. Here are some popular local programs (Be sure to check with each to find out what accommodations and/or modifications are being made to programs in light of COVID-19):
Boy Scouts of America Boy Scouts of America offers weeklong, aquatic-focused summer resident camp experiences at Camp Fiesta Island on beautiful Mission Bay. Their Counselor in Training (CIT) Program provides a unique opportunity for Scouts and venturers, ages 14 and 15, to develop leadership skills while also having fun, making new friends, earning merit badges, and meeting Ranger requirements. Learn more at https://camping.sdicbsa.org/ YAC/SummerCamp.php.
14 • SanDiegofamily.com • May 2020
