I don't quite understand the sentence, help!

[Vaok]

Research suggests that kids do better academically in schools with a nature component and that play in nature fosters leadship by the smartest, not by the toughest.

what's the meaning of the underlined parts? thanks!

[Bookyeti]

"With a nature component" = I'm assuming means that the school has a part of its curriculum based on children spending some time in natural environments.

"By the smartest, not by the toughest" = leadership skills are based on intelligence, not on physical strength.

Just my 2 cents.

[Vaok]

thank you.you are cool!