
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, September 11, 1995                   TAG: 9509110060
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

KIDSSPEAK

IF ELECTED, candidates in this year's Virginia legislative races and those (nearly as many) already running for the presidential election next year, have a duty to the voters to provide moral, responsible and sure-footed leadership, and to serve the public interest.

Perhaps it hasn't occurred to them, but they also have an obligation to set a good example for many who can't yet vote - the state's and nation's children.

A recent study at Wells College in Aurora, N.Y., examined children's ideas of leadership. Among other things, it found that children tend to take their models for leadership primarily from those in government and politics.

Kinda scary, isn't it, considering some of those who make their way onto the campaign trail? But the heartening news is that kids often seem more perceptive than adults at spotting buffoons and phonies and flibbertigibbets. And they call 'em like they see 'em.

How do children see leaders, and what do they expect of those in leadership roles?

For starters, children participating in the study said they consider most leaders to be bossy and mean, with little empathy for others. Additionally, they see leaders as being out of touch with those they are leading, and not much concerned about including others. The kids recommended more teamwork, sharing and cooperation. They also had the following advice for would-be leaders:

``Don't have a fit if people do something wrong. Nobody's perfect.'' ``Correct mistakes without being mean.'' ``Stop trying to be the tough guy.''

``Like people even when they are different.'' ``Spend more time with people who need their problems solved.'' ``Let people know that they are not alone with their problems.''

``Try to create conversation.'' ``When someone is confused, don't leave them confused.'' ``Don't talk like TV hosts. Talk like you mean business.''

``When you're learning something, don't quit too early.'' ``You can do something faster if you take your time.''

``Do what's fair.'' ``Don't do what others say if it is bad.'' ``Think things through about five times and always get a second opinion, maybe two or three. Then even if people don't like it, if you think it will help the country (or whatever you are doing) still do it.''

Strikes us as a sound platform for political candidates. And not a bad program for corporate bosses, school teachers - and parents - to follow, too.

by CNB