11 behaviour tips for training

Children’s behaviour can be one of the most daunting elements of coaching.

But, if you’re committed to it, there is a lot you can do to best set yourself, and your group, up for success.

01 SET THE BOUNDARIES

Start as you meant to go on. Young children need clarity and consistency. Set the tone from the first time you meet them. Stand by basic things such as when you talk, they listen, or no 

02 BE FIRM BUT FAIR

Maintain these boundaries throughout in a consistent way. Young children can (and should!) push boundaries. It’s up to you to make sure that you hold the boundaries firm. This tells them you stand by what you say and can be trusted.

03 USE ROUTINES

Where do players put their water bottles and bags when they arrive? Who helps to clean up the equipment at the end of the session? How do things flow within the session - is the structure the same? Are the water break times the same? What’s the pick up policy - do you all walk over to parents together as a team at the end of the session?

Being consistent with all of these things will set a routine for the players which will serve to make things more organised for you, and more structured and safe for them.

04 MODEL BEHAVIOUR

Good behaviour starts with you. How are you showing up? Are you on time? Are you respectful? Do you listen when others are talking? Show players what you want to see from them.

05 REDIRECT

If you spot a player starting to act out, the best first port of call is often trying to redirect their attention. Can you focus them on the task at hand? Can you give them a new challenge? 

Moving their energy towards something else can often stop challenging behaviour in its tracks. 

06 PRAISE GOOD BEHAVIOUR

Catch players in, rather than out. If you see good behaviour, praise it. And be specific about what you’re praising. For example: ’Ella, that was very helpful when you collected the cones in’. This serves to reinforce the fact that the player is doing the right thing, both to them and their team-mates.

07 USE POSITIVE PHRASES

The way you use language can have a really powerful impact. Rather than saying what not to do, try saying what to do. For example rather than ’Don’t kick the ball away’ try saying ’Let’s keep all of the balls with us here’.

08 BE EQUAL

Perceived favouritism can have a really detrimental effect on players. A lot of the time, though, it’s human nature. But it’s on us to recognise that and do something about it. Can you be intentional about making sure you give players equal attention? Players feeling seen, heard and valued will make them want to behave.

09 HAVE INDIVIDUAL CHATS

Try not to embarrass players in front of their peers. Of course, there may be times when you need to give a stern word to the group but, if possible, when it is one or two players who are misbehaving, chat to them individually. You’re more likely to be able to have a calm discussion this way, and it will help you to be able to understand the player’s point of view.

10 STAY CALM

Losing your temper is rarely, if ever, the answer. Keeping a calm manner and tone ensures the space remains safe while showing that you have a handle on the situation.

11 DON’t label

Challenge your thoughts. Is it so-called ’bad’ behaviour, or are they just being a kid? Don’t jump on everything, give them the benefit of the doubt sometimes. And get comfortable with a bit of noise and disruption - they’re children after all!