Making a session run smoothly

Organising a group of children taking part in sport is not always easy but these handy hints should help you to make things run as smoothly as possible.

• Minimise the number of times you stop a session and only stop them when you are in a good position where everyone can see and hear you.
• Don't stop focussed activities unless you have something important to contribute. Kids will just get frustrated and annoyed.
• If you're making a point to the whole group then fine, but try and attend to individuals without interrupting the game or practice.
• Be clear but not over the top. How things are said are as important as what is said.
• Ensure everybody can see and hear any demonstration you are about to give.
• Once you've got the group's attention you need to explain things quickly and clearly.
• Isolate one or two points to be explained. And don't use too many words explaining them. Be clear and concise.
• A demonstration can be worth a 1,000 words.
• Keep the demonstration simple - and repeat it. Check everyone knows what can be achieved before they have a go.
• Ask has anyone got a question about what they are about to do? and feedback any tips.