Pick the situation that looks closest.
Then watch the athlete and use what happened right before
to decide what to do next.
?
First, look at what happened
right before.
The same action can mean different things
in different moments. Face, body language,
and context can give you clues.
What are you seeing?
Tap the one that looks closest.
Every athlete is different.
If you already know what helps this athlete,
use that. If you're unsure, ask them
or check with a coach or caregiver.
Jumping + yelling
Start with the context.
Jumping or yelling can mean different things.
Check their face and what happened just before: they may
be excited, waiting for a turn, or starting to feel overwhelmed.
Do now
Look at their face and what happened just before.
If they look happy and safe, you may not need to stop it.
Give them a little space and keep your voice calm.
Make the next step clear.
Avoid
Assuming the behavior automatically means something is wrong.
Shouting “stop” or adding lots of words.
Crowding or grabbing them.
Try saying
“Your turn is next.”
or “One more, then basketball.”
Walking away
Don't make it a standoff.
Walking away may be a way of asking for space,
a break, or a clearer idea of what comes next.
Stay aware of safety without turning it into a struggle.
Do now
Stay nearby and make sure they're safe.
Give them some room instead of following closely.
Offer one simple choice, like “Break or basketball?”
When they're ready, show clearly what comes next.
Avoid
Repeating “come back” over and over.
Following right behind them.
Turning it into a power struggle.
Grabbing them unless there is immediate danger.
Try saying
“Break or basketball?”
Not responding
More time.
Fewer words.
No response does not always mean they did not understand.
They may be processing what you said, watching your gesture,
or getting ready to respond another way.
Do now
Say their name and give one clear cue.
Point or demonstrate what you mean.
Give them time before you say it again.
If needed, switch to a yes/no question or two clear choices.
Avoid
Repeating the same direction too quickly.
Getting louder.
Assuming silence means they are ignoring you.
Answering for them before they have time.
Try saying
“Water?” [show the bottle]
Then give them time to answer.
Overwhelmed
Make the moment smaller.
Noise, crowds, too much talking, or a sudden change
can pile up. Watch their face and body language
for signs that the moment is becoming too much.
Do now
Use fewer words and keep your voice calm.
Give them a little more physical space.
Reduce noise or move toward a quieter spot if they want to.
Offer one simple choice, like “Water or break?”
Avoid
Standing too close or crowding them.
Touching or moving them without asking first.
Adding more and more instructions.
Having several people talk to them at once.
Try saying
“Break or water?”
or “Want a quiet spot?”
Safety first
Create space.
Hitting, pushing, or grabbing may be a strong “no,”
frustration, fear, or overload. First make space
and keep the athlete and everyone around them safe.
Do now
Step back and give them room.
Move other athletes away if needed.
Keep your voice calm and use very few words.
Get a coach or staff member right away.
Avoid
Grabbing or pushing back.
Arguing, scolding, or giving a long explanation.
Cornering or crowding them.
Trying to handle a risky situation by yourself.
Try saying
“I'm giving you space.
Coach is coming.”
Immediate danger?
Get coach or event staff right away.
Follow the program's safety procedures.