What working with Toddlers has taught me

Working with Toddlers is a very rewarding experience, but of course it can be a challenge at times. It is such a joy to be able to come in to work, knowing you can help these little people to grow and learn in a safe fun environment. 
While I am helping our little gymnasts to learn new social skills, gymnastic skills and character growth... they are also helping me to learn.  
Here a few things I have learnt: 

1. Patience - When we speak to older gymnasts, we can use full sentences. That way we both can communicate our goals, needs and feedback. It isn’t always that easy with a toddler. You really need to observe their individual needs and listen to what they are trying to tell you verbally or with their body language. If you get too impatient and try to rush a task along, they will get lost and overwhelmed. So, its super important you take your time, and allow them to learn at their own pace and support them for as long as it takes. 

1. Persistence – Every week our little gymnasts will return to the gym, ready to attempt new and old skills again. There may be a skill that they don’t like, are afraid of, or aren’t yet capable of completing. However, each time they will do their best, and eventually they will progress and achieve their skills! This is the same for us as grown-ups. We will have challenges in our lives, inside and outside of the gym. If we keep trying, we will progress and overcome our challenges. 

1. Problem Solving – Occasionally we will be faced with a problem, or a challenge in a class. Where we will quickly have to find an adaptation to a skill, or a resolution that will comfort and progress our little gymnasts along in their learning journey. The ability to think quickly, and resolve a problem is a “skill for life” that we can use inside and outside of the gym once again! 

1. Confidence – Toddlers are so confident in about everything they do. It is amazing to see. If it is a brand-new skill that they haven’t seen before, they will try their hardest and no matter the results, they will be proud and confident in their ability. This positive, confidence building thinking is something we all should aspire to possess. 

1. Happiness – Everything is better when you have a smile on your face, and a good attitude. Sometimes we all can get a bit down. It is a part of our being’s as humans. However, how we try to resolve this for ourselves if where the true happiness lies. Find that one thing that truly makes you happy. That truly brings you joy. Make sure you are making time for yourself to be happy and joyful. Just like our little gymnasts on trampoline or hanging upside down! 

 
Have you got a child enrolled in one of our Play Skills programs? Have they taught you anything?  Let us know in the comments! 

Signing out for now, 
Coach Maygan