Presidents’ Day is more than just a day off. It’s a chance to talk with kids about leadership, responsibility, and making safe, smart choices. Just like our community’s, school’s, and country’s leaders make decisions that affect everyone, children can learn how to lead in their own lives by listening to their instincts, respecting others, and practicing kindness.

Leadership isn’t just about telling others what to do. It’s about making good choices, showing kindness, and helping others feel safe. Parents can guide children in understanding what it means to be a good leader while building confidence, respect, and empathy.

What Makes a Good Leader?

A good leader:

• Listens to their instincts and knows when something isn’t safe

• Treats others with kindness and respect

• Makes decisions that are fair and thoughtful

• Stands up for themselves and their friends in safe ways

Talking to Your Kids About Leadership

Start with conversations and examples:

• Use real-life situations: “If you see a friend being treated unfairly, what could a good leader do?”

• Discuss choices and consequences: Encourage children to think about how their decisions affect others.

• Praise leadership behaviors: Compliment your child when they make safe, kind, or respectful choices.

Listening to Your Harm Alarm

Every good leader knows when something doesn’t feel right. Your child’s Harm Alarm is that inner voice telling them to pause, think, or ask for help. Teaching children to recognize these feelings helps them make safe choices and speak up when something isn’t okay.

Getting Permission & Making Smart Decisions

Good leaders understand the importance of following rules and asking for permission. Encouraging kids to get permission before taking action, whether it’s borrowing a toy or going somewhere new, builds respect, responsibility, and trust.

Being a Good Friend

Leadership also means caring for others. Children who practice kindness, include peers, and stand up for friends when needed develop strong social skills and empathy. Learning to be a good friend reinforces both confidence and safe decision-making.

Practical Tips for Parents

1. Model leadership daily: Let your children see you making kind, safe, and respectful choices.

2. Encourage independent decision-making: Give kids safe opportunities to lead small activities at home or with friends.

3. Celebrate empathy and teamwork: Recognize moments when your child helps or supports others.

4. Talk through mistakes: Leaders learn from their choices, especially when things don’t go as planned.

5. Practice “what if” scenarios: Role-play situations where your child might need to use their Harm Alarm, ask for permission, or stand up for a friend.

Leadership starts with self-awareness. Help your child recognize their feelings, strengths, and values, and teach them to use those tools to make safe, kind, and respectful choices every day.

Lil’ Iguana Tip: Explore Lil’ Iguana’s lessons on Harm Alarm, Getting Permission, Being a Good Friend, and Showing Kindness to help your child practice leadership, confidence, and safe decision-making.