Session Design

Planning sessions that support children's development.

Introduction

Our goal with this framework is help you support the development of your riders not only as athletes but also as individuals. We are looking to support not only a rider physical development but also there social and emotional skills that can used in both sport and in their lives.

We want our riders to understand the value physical activity and sport can have on their lives which will lead to our riders being inspired to live active, healthy and happy lives.

If you would like more information around developing a whole person.

Tips for sessions that support children's development

Be creative with delivery

Riders thrive in sessions that are engaging and fun. When designing sessions, focus on creativity by incorporating principles of enjoyment, game-based activities, and rider-led engagement.

Challenge yourself to think beyond traditional drills:

What games can you introduce?
How can natural elements like drop-offs, steps, or small hills enhance the experience?
Could additional equipment such as ramps, planks, or objects be used to create more dynamic challenges?

Think of personal development

Consider the importance of personal development in your sessions. While technical and tactical skills are crucial, it's equally important to incorporate activities that help riders grow beyond the bike, fostering essential life skills. How can you integrate opportunities that promote teamwork, communication, and resilience?"

Here are some ways to incorporate personal skill development:

Team-building exercises: Use group challenges where riders must work together to solve problems or complete tasks, promoting cooperation and trust.
Communication drills: Introduce activities where riders give feedback to each other or plan their strategies, enhancing their ability to express ideas clearly and listen actively.
Resilience training: Create scenarios where riders face minor setbacks or challenging conditions, teaching them to stay motivated and bounce back from difficulties.

Activities and games

Some games, like Tag, often result in individuals being out and waiting on the side lines once they’re tagged. Consider how you can adapt your games or activities so that everyone stays engaged until the coach ends the session. One way to do this is by adding a mechanism that allows players to re-enter the game after they’re 'out,' keeping participation continuous and energy high.

For example, in a game of Tag, when a rider is tagged, they could perform a quick skill—such as riding a short distance around a cone or completing a small task—before rejoining the game. This not only keeps them active but also integrates skill development into the fun.

If you want more information regarding how to plan your session than check out - Play Their Way - How To Plan A Sports Coaching Session | Play Their Way

Game related resources

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