Creating a learning environment
When I get classroom time with athletes, I am very intentional about the atmosphere I create for them to walk into. There is music playing, the board is prepared with whatever we are going over, they know what I expect of them, and I do some fun activities to shift their mindset from the monotony of school to a playful attitude they can bring into practice.
First, when they enter the classroom, I stand in front of them and won't let go until they make eye contact. I stand in the doorway, so they have nowhere to go except through me. I say hello and use their name, then we shake hands. I've said this before, and kids love to hear you say their name when you have a smile on your face.
Second, there is music playing in the background. I find that music helps with setting the mood that this is going to be a positive experience. Here is a link to a collaborative Spotify playlist I created that coaches from all over the world have contributed to.
Third, I give them a two-minute warning. This lets them know to finish up that TikTok or Snapchat or text message and to put their phone on the table by the door. They know to do this because it is an expectation I have for them that they know part of our classroom time together. Two minutes later, this:
This is an expectation. I believe that kids are not intentionally disrespectful; they don't see any other way to behave modeled by people close to them. When I suggest to them it is a sign of respect to put their phones on silent and then place them on the table before we get started, they willingly oblige. However, it’s all in the delivery. Yell at them, demand from them, and they will respond the way you think a teenager will respond: disrespectfully.
Lastly, the range of activities we do is anywhere from improvisational games you see on Who's Line is it Anyway to childhood games most kids play on the playground. Sometimes the game has a takeaway that can be woven into the lesson that day; other times, it is just a way to let teammates get silly with one another- something I believe leads to a great culture.
