Declan's Style

Two weeks ago I tried to get Declan to practice "scooping" the ball with his Lacrosse stick. It didn't go well. I was trying to show him how and helped him hold the stick, even walked him through the needed movement to pick up and cradle the ball. 

He got frustrated. Frustrated by my coaching style and just stopped.

This evening I tried a different approach. I practiced with my own stick and ball while he practiced along side me with his. He observed what I was doing but how he learned was on his terms. I tried to take words he used while he talked about what he was doing to then support him with verbal encouragement. Of and of course each time he was successful we celebrated with a big high five.

The difference this type was clear. Declan didn't give up this time. He is rather determined and kept trying. He was able to scoop the ball numerous times. Declan is a very independent, stubbourn person who wants to succeed. If you push him though he's happy to push back but give him time, space and resources - he will do so well!