canopyblog86

 When I initially began coaching elementary school students, I made a critical mistake that lost me control of a group for a few sessions. I had one disruptive influence who would usually do the opposite of what I requested and would always leave and hide, necessitating a phone call from me. I've always asked schools what my disciplinary choices are, and they usually boil down to "put them to reception," which is very disruptive in and of itself and what I'd consider my absolute last resort. In this instance, I figured I'd show him what he was missing. I'd play a game he loved every time he hid. He'd often return, at which time I'd postpone his participation until the final minute or so and then swap activities. My thought was that he'd rather join in than hide, but the reality was quite different, and it ended in a tit for tat fight from which none of us benefited, and if anything, the other kids were more difficult to handle as I had to spend so ...