Just as parents are their children's first teachers, other adults that youngsters may come into contact with during their formative years can also make a big impact on learning about citizenship. That is especially true during the schools years. Like parents, coaches and teachers can also be motivators and increase a student's overall school and learning experience. Here are eight ways that adults of influence can help shape and mold future generations who practice good citizenship.

1. Encourage students to support their classmates by attending basketball games, drama presentations, and band and chorus concerts. No matter what activity students may be involved in, it's appropriate to ask them to support another activity. For example, students involved in the school newspaper might agree to be ticket takers at the Drama Club's spring play. Impress on each group that support of community begins with support for each other.



2. The classroom is an excellent venue for teachers to spotlight citizenship. Every subject presents opportunities to touch on citizenship in some manner, even if it's using a portion of math class to analyze the homeless or poverty rate in the area. That could demonstrate that there are people in the community who need the help of good citizens.



3. Students can participate in existing community events, such as aiding other volunteers during a Red Cross Drive. Or, they can create their own special opportunity, such as organizing a clean-up day for senior citizens. This is where students assist older adults with chores that are simply beyond their physical capabilities. Activities can range from painting a room to sweeping out basements to mowing lawns. Coordination of such projects may be accomplished through the local senior citizens center or by joining forces with the "Christmas in April" national campaign.



4. Encourage students to become tutors for students in lower grades. This exposes participants to the possibility for a career in education, and puts them in the position of being a role model for a younger student, which is an important citizenship experience for them to have.



5. Organize students to conduct a food drive, with items to be collected at the door of a game, play, or other co-curricular event. Some schools elect to waive admission to those who bring a food donation. Food collected could be donated to the local pantry, food kitchen, or Harvesters organization.



6. To raise money for the homeless, ask students to spend a night outdoors in cardboard boxes or similar accommodations, and take pledges of money for each hour they spend through the night. Funds are not only collected for the homeless, but positive publicity is generated. Often, businesses sponsor the overall event, donating money, services or products, to the homeless in the area. Be sure to have a "haven" for those who cannot endure the entire night, and make sure the weather is conducive for the overnight adventure.



7. Members of the school chorus can volunteer their talents to sing for senior citizens at their centers or nursing homes. Such occasions are extremely rewarding for shut-ins, and the gratitude from the elderly will more than compensate the students. Similar visits can be made to hospitals in the children's area, or to sheltered homes for those suffering from various mental challenges.



8. Contact a local service club about creating an exciting and new event to raise funds for a charitable cause. An example might be to sponsor a Pancake Breakfast for that organization's favorite cause. One high school girls' basketball team raises hundreds of dollars annually in conjunction with the local Rotary Club.

These are just eight examples of how teachers, coaches, and other adults of influence can enhance children's understanding of - and appreciation for - the concept of citizenship. Hundreds of additional opportunities exist and more can be created through imagination.