Growth and development is a topic that often is not well understood by new coaches."Can a child be too young for competition?" The answer is "yes" if we are strictly referring to the adult model of competition such as the organized swim meet.  Young athletes often do not have the psychological, social and physical skills necessary for the competitive environment. At the developmental level, the important element is skill. However, if competition is structured to make it developmentally appropriate for young athletes, they can benefit from the experience and develop the necessary skills.  For complete information order the DVD: The Foundations of Coaching.

It is crucial that the coach use age and skill appropriate vocabulary and concepts. Very young swimmers do not need long explanations of the mechanics behind the skills. Teach one skill at a time and allow swimmers to master the skill before adding additional elements.  Use a live demonstration when possible.  Also use DVDs and still pictures.  For complete information order the DVD: The Foundations of Coaching.

Many coaches are used to designing sets or thinking about yardage as the primary goal. But novice swimmers are not just miniature seniors. They have special needs and considerations. First of all, forget about making yardage the primary objective. Begin with the end in mind, which is to get the swimmers ready for moving to the age group team and swim meets. For complete information order the DVD: The Foundations of Coaching.