Positive Charting

An excellent idea for coaches to begin using is that of Positive Charting.  Each game, carry a clipboard or notebook with a listing of each player’s name followed by a blank space for notations.  Whenever you notice a player doing something you want to reinforce, note it.  At the beginning of the next practice, take about ten minutes to share with your team the good things you noted.  This activity usually sets a positive tone for the practice and helps motivate each player to continue trying to improve since they know any improvement will be noted called to the attention of the entire group.  Some guidelines:

• Each player should have about the same amount of things noted and shared for each game.
• Recognize players for great things they have done on their own, as well as what you are teaching.
• Include “character” items when appropriate.  For example, a player may have trouble controlling her temper when an opposing basketball player elbows her.  If so, make that one of the things she is working on and note it and share it with the group when she makes progress.
• Give recognition for effort, not just results.
• Ask the players to help you observe good things that their teammates are doing.  This involves them in the game and reinforces the areas that you want all of your players to concentrate on.

As kids are forming their self-images, they need help in identifying their own strengths. So, whenever a player shows perseverance, motivation, discipline or another behavior that will help him or her succeed, comment on it.  As you identify a label, a child’s strength, you’re giving the child a good basis for developing these skills.  And when you suggest that these positive behaviors are part of a child’s personality, the behaviors increase in frequency. 

For more information on Positive Charting, read Jim Thompson’s book, Positive Coaching.