One of the errors I think we make in coaching kids is that we don’t give them enough credit for what they already know or sense or feel. Since they were born (and probably before), they have been little sponges just soaking up everything going on around them.

The prime sounds, of course, come from Mom and Dad. Any siblings naturally join the chorus. Back in that time when I was the little sponge there wasn’t much more than that anyway. Today’s kids have television computer programs, home movies, the Internet, etc.

The reason I think this is important is that the number one purpose of education is to provide a foundation for being willing to take responsibility for EVERYTHING in one’s life. If you disagree, that is your choice. My request is that you set that aside for a couple of minutes and hear me out.

In successfully coaching teams of people for over 50 years I have found that the greater the willingness of each individual to take responsibility for the whole, the better the team. This is a process of learning that includes growth in several areas:

1. Giving opportunities for them to think for themselves

2. Providing an environment that is based on inquiry and discovery

3. Providing parameters that are a stretch, but not conducive to a “train wreck”. Free fall is a “train wreck”. They need something to bump up against. We can widen the parameters at any time.

4. When they stumble or get stuck, be there to pick them up, dust them off and get them back in the game.

5-Be careful of limiting them with your infinite wisdom about what they are capable of doing. Be open to being surprised.

6. Create an environment where your leadership and theirs can flourish together.

Watch for the next blog post titled, Kids, Kids, Kids 3. We have just begun.

Check out the extensive series of coaching books from coach Rolland Todd available at Lulu.com.