SSNB Parents Developmental Guidelines

Early Puberty

This Pamphlet is generally aimed at children from 10 to 14 years of age. “ALL” parents must be aware that not all children mature and develop at the same physical, mental and emotional growth rates, so the age is based on the average child in this phase. Exactly where in this group your child falls, depends on either their gender and/or their biological age. Within this phase there should be a distinct recognition of the differences in the maturity level between females and males.

Speed Skate New Brunswick Coaches pay great attention to the principals of the growth and development of your individual child, within a speed skating context.

This Pamphlet will give you a brief review of the development characteristics of children this age and the basic concepts that your child’s coach is working to develop.

Skill acquisition at this stage of growth is very important. Participation and having FUN are still the big factors but developing a sense of ownership and commitment to ones self and ones skills is beginning to take place by the end of this phase. Again the maturity level of the skater will be a deciding factor.

1.  Significant proportional changes can occur in bone muscle and fat.

2.  Primary and secondary sexual characteristics become apparent. Early in this phase – girls are faster than boys but near the end of this phase this trend reverses as male begin to mature.

3.  Smaller muscle groups are becoming more refined and developed. Speed, agility and coordination are still rapidly developing in this phase. The finer motor movements must be mastered in this phase.

4.  The body parts do not all grow at the same rate. This changes the center of gravity for the skater. This can be very frustrating as skills may have to be re-learned.

5.  The oxygen transportation system is still developing and the aerobic endurance is continuing to increase. The increase in the body mass requires a more structured aerobic training program.

6.  The central nervous system is almost fully developed. Agility, balance and co-ordination are now fully trainable and should be incorporated in the warm-up activities.

7.  Abstract thinking is more firmly established. Technical training can become more complex.

8.  A great emphasis is placed on self-identity. This can result in a strong fear of failure. Simple coping strategies and concentration skills are introduced.

9.  Young people are eager to prefect their skills. Positive reinforcement is critical at this phase (see # 8).

10.  There is a tremendous influence on behavior from peer groups. Values and attitudes are being created and reinforced by the group. There should be strong direction and supervision at this phase.

11.  Young people are capable of cooperating and accepting some responsibility. Some may be less responsible due to a fear of failure. Keep communication open.

12.  Tension usually exists between adults and adolescents. Two way communication should be fostered, especially at the coach level, as they may be accepted more readily.

13.  Early maturers often become leaders and excel in physical performance. Coaches must aware and give Positive reinforcement of ALL skaters. Do not base group performance on the more mature skater(s).

14.  Physical, mental and emotional maturity do not necessarily mature at the same rate. Feelings of confusion and anxiety can result. Communication within the group is very important.

15.  Co-educational activities are recommended for this group. Social activities are very important for this group.