Presenter
Hannah Lobdell
Sunday, October 11
2:00 – 2:45 pm
Leading the Littlest: Confident Coaching in Parent-Toddler Classes
Parent–Toddler classes are often one of the most intimidating environments for coaches, even those who are otherwise confident teaching preschool gymnastics. When parents are active participants on the floor, coaches may struggle to establish leadership, manage class flow, and confidently guide both adults and children through a fun and developmentally appropriate experience.
This lecture is designed to give coaches the leadership tools, language, and structure needed to confidently run Parent–Toddler classes that are engaging, organized, and impactful. Participants will learn how to clearly define their role as the coach in a parent-present setting, while empowering caregivers to support their child’s movement, exploration, and early skill development.
The session will cover how to intentionally design circuits that set families up for success, with an emphasis on smooth transitions, realistic expectations, and age-appropriate challenges for children under three. Attendees will explore key developmental milestones—gross motor, fine motor, vestibular, and social-emotional—and how to actively facilitate these outcomes through thoughtful class design and coaching cues.
Coaches will also leave with practical talking points and communication strategies to confidently lead parents through the flow of class, explain the “why” behind activities, and redirect common challenges in a positive, supportive way. The goal is to transform Parent–Toddler classes from a source of uncertainty into a powerful, joyful introduction to gymnastics that builds trust with families and creates a strong foundation for long-term program retention.
This lecture supports coaches in delivering a high-quality first gymnastics experience—one that benefits children, parents, and programs alike—while reinforcing professionalism, clarity, and confident leadership in the earliest stage of athlete development.