Consider two scenarios for investing money. In the first scenario the investor shares that, after a series of exchanges with your money, your investment will diminish. Conversely, in a second scenario the investor shares that, after a series of different exchanges with your money, your investment will multiply. If given a choice most people would choose the latter scenario. Consider now that certain interactions with people can have similar outcomes as the scenarios above. Some interactions help people flourish while other types of interactions may cause people to feel inadequate and incapable. My recent reading of an inspiring book called “The Multiplier Effect” explains the practices that multiply or diminish the potential of those you lead. I read this book with an initial focus on school leadership, but immediately drew many connections to parent and educator interactions with students.

The Multiplier Effect (Wiseman, Allen & Foster, 2013) shares a series of choices we make when leading others:

We can provide an environment that allows children choice in a context of high expectations; stretching their thinking. Or, we can show children how much we know by doing all of the thinking for them.

We can construct an environment where debates and transparency are valued and, where possible, decisions are made collectively. Or, we can make decisions unilaterally and without explanation.

We can micromanage each interaction our children make. Or, we can find opportunities to step back and let our children take ownership over their actions.

It is exciting to that that we can shape an environment that allows children to be decision-makers, thinkers, and collaborators helps them to reach their fullest potential. Every time we interact with children we send a message. Consider the message you want your children to receive.

Wiseman, L., Allen, L. & Foster, E. (2013). The multiplier effect. USA: Corwin.

Living and working with child-like wonder | Liz Wiseman | TEDxUniversityofNevada
(although this TED Talk is about business, connections can be made to any type of leadership; in education or parenting)