One of the most difficult concepts to teach to primary students is leadership styles. It is also one of the most important. Kids need to be able to assess leaders in their lives and in their community. Since this concept is so abstract, I start with something that is familiar territory, Fairy Tale characters. This not only gives them a visual for the type, but also gives them a “jump off” point for class discussion.
From Disney to storybooks to stories passed down by parents, kids have a basic understanding of folk tale and fairy tale characters. They see them as one dimensional. But, that works in your favor when teaching such an abstract concept as style of leadership. Most primary curriculums already include folk tales, fairy tales, or nursery rhymes. So, you are really covering two objectives if you teach leadership styles this way.
There are many types of leaders. For primary kids, I teach 4 simple types:
- Teacher (Participative)
- Pied Piper of Hamelin (Charismatic)
- Fairy Godmother (Transformative)
- King (Authoritarian)
- Wizard of Oz (Laissez-faire)
Snow White (Participative)
The Snow White wants everyone to do their part. She provides information and time for the group to be the best they can be. Teachers:
- ask for opinions
- cares about the members of the group
- works right along the others
- help the group discuss the problem
- motivate by giving each a say
- do what is best for the most people
The King (Authoritarian)
The King makes all the decisions. He thinks he knows best what people need. The King:
- sets all goals
- does not ask for opinions
- tells people what to do
- Tells people how to do it.
- does not often change his mind
The Pied Piper (Charismatic)
The Pied Piper get followers because of appeal. Just like anyone on instagram, their appeal is their stock in trade. The Pied Piper:
- are motivational speakers
- gets followers because they are liked
- inspires followers to want the same goals
- are confident
- convince you they know what is best
The Fairy Godmother (Transformational)
The Fairy Godmother has a great idea, and a plan to make it happen. She sees a big problem, and is focused on change. The Fairy Godmother:
- has a new, creative vision
- is focused on the future
- inspires followers to want the same goal
- knows how to use the talents of group to make change
- keeps the group moving toward the goal
The Wizard of Oz (Laissez-faire)
The Wizard of Oz is a “hands-Off” leader. To the outsider, they look lazy.
The Wizard of Oz:
- leaves the day-to-day decisions to the staff
- picks the right people so they can trust and rely on the group
- don’t give much instruction or guidance
- want members to be creative in problem solving
- when things go wrong, it is the member’s fault
Click on the left to see my “Speak Like a Girl” Close reading passages for 8 young women in history.
Click on the right to get a FREE copy of a primary brochure response sheet to use with leaders.
If you wish to read more about leadership, check out “Presidents as Leaders” here.