When I hear the word "leadership" my mind fills with memories. Some of these memories are of teachers, friends, and family. They are of people I looked up to, who helped me grow and push the edges of my comfort zone. Others are of activities and accomplishments, like swimming 37 widths across a swimming pool, as a young swimmer, without stopping, or returning as a young high school student from a successful service project.

I realize now, as an adult, the lessons learned in these activities helped stretch my comfort zone as a shy young girl. These lessons helped build my character and made me a stronger person--something all parents want for their children. Here are a few way parents can encourage leadership in children of varying ages.