For coaches and educators.
Overview
Social support means helping participants feel welcomed, encouraged, and connected to others in your club. Peers, coaches, and other adults each have a part to play.
Start with three simple actions
Greet participants by name and offer encouragement during club time.
Recognize one example of effort, improvement, or teamwork at each session.
Remind the group how everyone’s participation contributes to the club goal.
Help participants support one another
Encourage participants to cheer for teammates and celebrate each other’s milestones.
Use group activities and shared goals to give participants a reason to work together.
Keep friendly competition supportive. Recognize personal improvement as well as results.
Make time to talk about a challenge and share ideas for the next session.
Try saying: “Who encouraged you today? Let’s thank them.”
Build consistent coach routines
Give specific feedback, such as “You kept working toward your goal today.”
Praise effort and persistence, including when a participant has a difficult day.
Use familiar routines, such as a group warm-up and consistent start and stop signals.
Set clear expectations for how participants treat one another and address concerns promptly.
Keep checking in with participants so everyone has an opportunity to feel included.
Include supportive adults
Invite adults helping with the program to model encouragement, recognize effort, and celebrate the group’s progress. Share the same club routines and expectations with everyone helping.