Attitude
01.
A good attitude
02.
Way of teaching
A good attitude
The attitude you have as a teacher is important because it sets the tone for the lesson and affects how the children feel. Good attitude can create a safe and motivating environment where everyone feels comfortable participating. Here are some tips for good attitude:
Be open and approachable
What it means: Stand up straight with your shoulders back, a relaxed posture, and a friendly expression. Your posture should show that you are ready to help and listen.
Example: When you start class, stand facing the group, look at the children, and smile. This shows that you take them seriously and are happy that they are there.
Why: When you have an open posture, children feel welcome and are more likely to ask questions or ask for help.
Be energetic and enthusiastic
What it means: Show your energy in your body language and voice. Your movements should be lively and you should show that you are excited about the lesson.
Example: When explaining how to play a game, use your hands to show movements and make sure your voice is clear and enthusiastic.
Why: Being enthusiastic is contagious. Children will feel more energized and excited to participate.
Connect with the group
What it means: Making eye contact shows that you are paying attention to the children. Walking around shows that you are there for everyone.
Example: While the children are doing an exercise, walk around the group and check that everyone is doing well. Give a compliment here and there or help someone who is struggling.
Why: When you move and make eye contact, children feel that you are involved and not just watching from a distance. This helps to build a bond.
What not to do
Don't stand with your back to the group:
If you stand with your back to the children, they will miss your attention and will not be able to concentrate on what they have to do. You will also miss signals from the group.
Don't stand with your arms crossed or hands in your pockets:
This gives a distant or closed impression. Children may think that you are not really interested or that you are angry.
Don't be too passive or quiet:
If you stand quietly and without energy in front of the group, children will not listen well or become motivated. It will then seem as if you do not feel like attending the lesson yourself.
Way of teaching
Here are some additional aspects relevant for trainers to consider in their teaching attitudes and styles.
Predictability
What it means: It is important that you as a trainer are consistent in your behavior and expectations. Children then know what to expect and what is expected of them.
Example: If you always start with a short explanation and then a warm-up, children know what the structure of the lesson is. This creates peace and clarity.
Why: Consistency creates a sense of security and predictability, especially for children who are sensitive to change or unexpected situations.
Positive feedback
What it means: Regularly giving praise and positive feedback can motivate kids and build their self-confidence.
​Example: Instead of just correcting them, say things like, “Good job, you really tried!” or “I see you’re trying harder to keep your balance, that’s going well!”
​Why: Positive reinforcement makes kids feel valued and motivated to improve. It builds their self-confidence.
Attention to the individual
What it means: Be considerate of the different levels, backgrounds, and needs of the children in your class. This shows that you see them as individuals.
​Example: If a child is struggling with a particular exercise, adapt the exercise so that the child can experience success. For example, making an adjustment for children with physical disabilities or giving someone extra time if they are learning slower.
​Why: Adapting your lesson to individual needs helps each child feel included and prevents anyone from feeling left out or overwhelmed.
Be open to feedback
What it means: A good trainer is not only a teacher, but also someone who is open to learning from the group and continues to develop themselves.
Example: Regularly ask the children if they are enjoying themselves and if they find certain exercises difficult or fun. Also be prepared to accept and use feedback from fellow trainers.
Why: By being open to feedback, you show that you are flexible and want to improve yourself, which contributes to a positive and learning environment.
Emotional control
What it means: It’s crucial that you keep your emotions in check during class, even when situations get chaotic or stressful.
​Example: If a group of children isn’t listening right away or there’s a lot of noise, stay calm and use your voice in a controlled manner to regain control.
​Why: Children often mirror the teacher’s behavior. If you stay calm, they’ll be more likely to calm down too. This helps maintain a safe and structured environment.
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Be a role model
What it means: As a sports coach, you are a role model for children. Your behavior, attitude, and communication style set an example of how they should behave in the group.
Example: Show respect to each child, be fair, and encourage teamwork and sportsmanship. This shows children how to behave respectfully towards others.
Why: Children learn not only through instruction, but especially through observation. If you set a good example, they are more likely to adopt these positive behaviors.
Radiate self-confidence
What it means: When you are confident in your posture and speech, you are signaling that you are in control of the situation and know what you are doing.
Example: Stand firm, speak clearly, and exude calm and confidence, even when unexpected things happen during class.
Why: If you seem insecure, children may feel less safe or feel like the class is not well-organized.