Start by asking the kids
For program administrators, the end of one year and the start of the next can be a great time to reflect on programs. So, this month, I asked some certified youth-sports professionals what they do to ensure their programs are always improving. But first, I would like to share some ideas I have heard over the years in addition to the knowledge that staff members have gleaned through their experience.
The first one, and one of my favorites, is pretty simple but so powerful: ask the kids! This can be done in so many ways. Formal surveys are easy today, using a social-media platform, email, or one of the many free survey apps (just Google “free survey”).
But probably a better way to obtain participants’ input is to have staff members actively engage them. Try giving staff a goal of getting at least one valuable comment at every game or practice they work. Obviously, this works well with coaches and parents, too, but we should always be focused on the kids because they love to be asked for their input.