Setting Sail with the Seven Habits Parkside Elementary

What Are the 7 Habits? Based on the work of Stephen and Sean Covey We only get one chance to prepare our students for a future that none of us can possibly predict. What are we going to do with that one chance? ~Stephen Covey

Why a Leadership Focus? Finding the Treasure We believe that every child possesses leadership skills. We believe that every child will serve as a leader in some way, either in their careers or with family and friends. We believe that character education is essential. We believe that students must be taught how to collaborate with others. We believe that leadership training will have a positive impact on student achievement.

The Habits: Habit 1: Be Proactive I have a “Can Do” attitude. I choose my actions, attitudes and moods. I don’t blame others. I do the right thing without being asked, even if nobody is looking.

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom. I look for ways to be a good citizen.

Habit 3: Put First Things First I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to things I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am organized.

Habit 4: Think Win-Win I want everyone to be a success. I don’t have to put others down to get what I want. It makes me happy to see other people happy. I like to do nice things for others. When a conflict arrives, I help brainstorm a solution. We all can win!

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas.

Habit 6: Synergize I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different from me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems. I know that “two heads are better than one”. I am a better person when I let other people into my life and work.

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places.

Bringing It Home Read & discuss The 7 Habits for Happy Kids Use the language. i.e. “How could you be proactive in this situation?” Consider which habit your child is strong in. Which are weaknesses? Discuss & set goals. Talk about your strengths and weaknesses. Verbalize when a habit is used. Make a family mission statement. (Begin with the end in mind.) Model. i.e. Write out agendas and to-do lists. (Put first things first.) “Leadership is communicating people’s worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it themselves.” ~Unknown

Credits This presentation was created by Rebecca Radicchi, Area 5 Lead Teacher, using the following sources: The Seven Habits for Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey The Seven Habits for Happy Kids by Sean Covey The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey The Leader in Me by Stephen Covey The Leader in Me website