Coaching difficult children means getting resourceful as a Kids Life Coaching

What equates to a difficult child? Is this a child who doesn't listen? Always argues? Doesn't follow the rules? Lies? Steals? Takes drugs and drinks alcohol? Plays truant and doesn't perform well at school?

No matter how we look at it, "difficult" has negative connotations and no matter the "difficulty" facing the child you are coaching, it isn't about what is going wrong, but about what you can do to help!

In my experience, coaching children, especially those who present challenges, needs more than just my patience and determination. It calls for me to get creative and resourceful. Here are some strategies I use to help unlock the potential in every child I coach, no matter the obstacles they are facing.

1. Embrace Flexibility: Children who are labeled as "difficult" often struggle with rigid structures. Flexibility in your approach allows you to tailor your coaching methods to fit the child's unique needs and learning style. This might mean adjusting your expectations or finding new ways to engage them in learning. 

2. Create a Positive Environment: An encouraging environment with no reference to past mistakes or challenges is crucial. Focus on what the child does well and has achieved no matter how small their steps. Offer praise and encouragement generously for their efforts to build their confidence and willingness to maintain their trajectory of making good choices.

3. Utilise Creative Tools: Sometimes, traditional teaching Play Based Coaching® tools don't cut it. Incorporating technology, or unconventional learning materials like music, EFT tapping can make a world of difference. 

4. Encourage Self-Expression: Giving children a platform to express themselves even if it means crying or getting angry, can be incredibly empowering. Whether it's through art, writing, or movement, self-expression in your coaching sessions helps children process their feelings and boosts their self-esteem. It also provides valuable insights into their world, helping you tailor your approach more effectively.

5. Seek Support: Remember, you're not alone. Collaborating with parents, educators, and professionals can provide new perspectives and strategies. When you look at the child's circumstances from different vantage point, you are able to gain better perspective. Also come along to our professional supervision sessions if you are a membership coach to share your experiences and gain insight into ideas for resources and innovative solutions that make your coaching more effective.

Coaching children labelled as "difficult" isn't always easy, but it's incredibly rewarding. By getting resourceful and thinking outside the box, you can make a significant impact on their lives, helping them to see and reach their full potential. This starts with reframing the word "difficult" and saying instead "a child with an unmet needs." 

If you are a membership coach or a premium student, join me on Tuesday, 8 October at 9 am GMT for a Q & A session on how to best support "difficult" children. See you there!