Adam Dovico believes that when children lead, the world watches, he said in a Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) blog post. | Pixabay
Adam Dovico believes that when children lead, the world watches, he said in a Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) blog post.
Dovico mentions a story of a young girl who enjoyed sewing and made masks with her mother to take to a homeless shelter to help those who needed them.
Dovico wrote that since March 13, students, teachers and parents have all had to navigate a virtual world.
"Many students have risen above ordinary expectations to provide exemplars of young leadership in the most pressing of times," Dovico wrote in the blog post. "From students like the aforementioned making masks for those in need to those who have spoken up against hate and violence that has intensified during the pandemic, young leaders are finding opportunity in tribulation to still positively impact their community."
Dovico also mentioned Chelsea's Charity, which was started by a 10-year-old girl who provides art supplies and art lessons to young children. He said while it's uncommon to expect children to be leaders, it happens a lot.
He said when he interviewed many young leaders along with Todd Nesloney for their book When Kids Lead they learned of so many children doing extraordinary things, but each child would respond that they got where they were because of confidence.
"Many elaborated to explain how there was a parent, a teacher, or a mentor whose simple encouraging words or helpful push provided the sought-after assurance to pursue their dream or passion," Dovico wrote.
Dovico urged parents and teachers to encourage student leadership by using assuring words, asking questions, celebrating failures and encouraging further learning.
In my 18 years in education now, I have been blessed to watch my students speak on stages, organize events, write powerful essays, start businesses, and dream in a way that only kids can dream," Dovico wrote. "If you have the chance, be the adult in a child’s life who uplifts and supports them in becoming a young leader."
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