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Each of us has abilities, whether physical, mental, or social. What most of us don't realize is that teaching these skills to children can help transform their lives.
That's why coaching can have such an enormous impact. For America's kids, learning not only a skill but also how to work together is the perfect foundation for their future success.Maybe you don't like athletics or haven't pursued them since grade school, but don't give up on coaching just yet. Neither coaching nor teamwork is the exclusive province of sports. The stunning resurgence in the popularity of spelling bees demonstrates that competition, dedication, and big goals can be part of all children's lives. In fact, there are all kinds of coaching experiences available that have nothing to do with muscles and games. From debating to building robots to making music, team-oriented programs for kids are exploding, and they all need people like us to help.
Think about your skills. Are you good at chess? Tennis? Maybe you orate like Daniel Webster. Then find out what programs are at your local schools, library, or community center that align with your specialty. And if there isn't a program, take the next step. For children in areas in which funds are scarce, there aren't many activities to choose from at schools or community centers. Stand up for those kids and ask yourself what you can do to create a new "team" opportunity.
Remember also that children who are new to a craft or sport don't need a guru, just some guidance. In other words, you don't have to be Tiger Woods to teach golf or Annie Leibowitz to teach photography. You just have to be willing to share yourself. Show a child how to play Scrabble, solve crossword puzzles, debate, care for bonsai, build Lego sculptures, work with papier-mâché, or figure out Rubik's Cube. There's a tournament out there for just about every skill; why not give a child the thrill of being recognized for a new talent? And yes, coaching baseball, football, basketball, soccer, or any other traditional sport is always an amazing way to give.
We can't emphasize it enough: Our society's obsession with popular culture and video games is often in direct conflict with the values of hard work and collaboration, and ongoing improvement that we so want our children to have. Absent a counterbalance, these cultural forces teach kids to become passive spectators in life. Help children learn that they can achieve anything they set their minds on -- and not watch life go by from the lonely isolation of a sofa.
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