Lee, working in the foundation phase can be such a rewarding experience  but it can also be a really "tough gig" so sorry to hear things are not going as well as you would have liked. To help I would need some further information such as: how many players are in your group and do they all play up or is it just one or two/some? Also, do they know each other outside your sessions (school, live and play together often) as this could also have a bearing on behaviour.

Setting the environment for learning and development is hard because children will come for lots of different reasons but some things are non negotiable in my opinion. Many teams have codes of conducts but if these contain lots of things then hardly anyone will remember them so it might be good to focus on just 3; Safety, Learning and Respect as most poor behaviour will impact negatively on one of these things. Using 3 things means everyone will remember them and you have a chance to shape the behaviour you desire.

The reason I asked if it is all the boys or just some is that virtually all children want the attention of the adults involved in their development and relationships. However, if all of your attention is given to those that misbehave then others might think it is the quickest way to get the coaches attention. Try to focus on the behaviours you want and expect. Notice players listening or paying attention if you are explaining what is going to happen. Notice and praise players who try hard, react well after a mistake, try to help others and are kind and considerate of others. The message to the disrupters is that if you want my attention behave this way. This sounds easy but may take time but be consistent in your praise and learn how to "tactically ignore" some poor behaviours whilst you praise those that are buying into your philosophy.

I would also bring the parents on board so that they can help reinforce the approach you want to take.

Be aware that changes in behaviour take time so be patient but consistent in your approach.

Good luck.

Pete

Lee, working in the foundation phase can be such a rewarding experience  but it can also be a really "tough gig" so sorry to hear things are not going as well as you would have liked. To help I would need some further information such as: how many players are in your group and do they all play up or is it just one or two/some? Also, do they know each other outside your sessions (school, live and play together often) as this could also have a bearing on behaviour.

Setting the environment for learning and development is hard because children will come for lots of different reasons but some things are non negotiable in my opinion. Many teams have codes of conducts but if these contain lots of things then hardly anyone will remember them so it might be good to focus on just 3; Safety, Learning and Respect as most poor behaviour will impact negatively on one of these things. Using 3 things means everyone will remember them and you have a chance to shape the behaviour you desire.

The reason I asked if it is all the boys or just some is that virtually all children want the attention of the adults involved in their development and relationships. However, if all of your attention is given to those that misbehave then others might think it is the quickest way to get the coaches attention. Try to focus on the behaviours you want and expect. Notice players listening or paying attention if you are explaining what is going to happen. Notice and praise players who try hard, react well after a mistake, try to help others and are kind and considerate of others. The message to the disrupters is that if you want my attention behave this way. This sounds easy but may take time but be consistent in your praise and learn how to "tactically ignore" some poor behaviours whilst you praise those that are buying into your philosophy.

I would also bring the parents on board so that they can help reinforce the approach you want to take.

Be aware that changes in behaviour take time so be patient but consistent in your approach.

Good luck.

Pete