Group Control and Attention
In order to be effective as a leader, you must have the attention of all of the members of a group. It's not always easy to get the attention of school-age kids, but the more you practice, the easier it becomes. Below are a few things to consider.
Convine yourself
You have been selected for your leadership ability. Many young people have not been in leadership roles, and it is not easy to take charge, but that is your role. You have been entrusted with the responsibility of leadership. Know it and take charge.
Know those you are leading
If you accept yourself as the leader of a group, know that there are those who will challenge your authority from the very beginning. Some will follow you willingly. Some will have short attention spans. But if you are a strong enough leader, you will eventually win each of them over.
Know what you are doing
Be sure you have "done your homework." Know what the plan of action is, and think through the important steps before you attempt to lead the group.
Think through what you want to say
Just because you know what you are going to do doesn't mean you know how to say it. Make sure your words will come out the right way.
Speak slowly, clearly, and firmly
Be sure you are loud enough, and be sure you speak slowly enoufh so that young people who may not be used to listening carefully can understand. Children will not know what you want them to do if they cannot understand you.
Get attention
If the thoughts of the members are scattered, you must get them to focus before you deliver any important information.
Be firm, and wait for a response
Once you have set forth a direction, wait for it to happen. Don't allow yourself to be distracted. If something important enough to distract you does occur, take care of it, then go back and follow up on your original direction.
Don't lose control
Take care of small problems before they become big ones. But don't attempt to handle ALL small problems. You will soon know what to challenge and what to ignore.
Maintain your composure
If you are tempted to become frustrated, don't allow yourself to give in. When you lose your composure, you will begin to lose the respect of the group. Don't raise your voice either, because once you've done this the group will know your limits and will set out to challenge them.
Never, never, NEVER:
Strike a child, or use degrading or abusive language.
ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE THE LEADER
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