The best way to learn is to teach

Every Skate Therapy session, I am reminded of the well-known Latin principle Docendo discimus: “The best way to learn is to teach”. Through misunderstandings, challenges, and occasional falls, I have learned so much from the program that will help me as I become an instructor.

Being an assistant, I have been given the opportunity to work with different students and coaches. During this process, I have gained experience and improved my coaching skills. When observing other instructors in action, I have noticed certain things that they do to make their student feel more comfortable. For instance, Sue gives Alexandra constant praise for pushing her limits. When she holds her one foot glide for a few seconds longer than the week before, Sue does not hesitate to motivate her and celebrate her newest record. Similarly, Delaney gives constant words of encouragement to her kids that build trust, like “I’m right here,” and “I won’t let
you fall,”

In addition, the other instructors I have worked with have taught me how to stay calm if something happens. I know not to panic if my student falls down, experiences sensory overload, or has an outburst. Instead, I maintain my composure and process the situation, paying attention to the signs of discomfort from my student, so I know if they need to go to the bathroom, have their skates re-tied, get some warmer clothing, or they are just feeling distressed or confused. Equally important, I have also learned to bring the student to their parent if required. They are the experts on their child, and will know what to do if a situation gets out of control.

Being an assistant has given me an opportunity to think outside of the box and try different things. With Alexandra, who loves to push herself and break her records, I set up a game that tracks her progress with one foot glides. With Arjun, who struggles to focus, I have learned that softly singing instructions to him helps.

These methods are all trial and error, but they have taught me that every child is different and I just have to find a way that works for them. Before my student even comes onto the ice, I have to learn about their strengths and abilities by talking with their parents about their needs and how to accommodate them. I aim to use skating as a way to help them with motor skills, strength, communication, and logical thinking. My main goal is to help them build their confidence in themselves so they can flourish both on and off ice.

Being an instructor will come with a new set of challenges, but I trust that my experiences as an assistant have prepared me for the task of handling my own student.