This simple technique has helped me a lot.
In any situation a rider doesn’t want to cooperate or is confused, explain “First [do this], then [do that].”
Then stick to your guns.
Repeat and be patient.
For example, I have some young riders that get easily distracted or would rather collect beanie babies than practice steering. So when we get into a “but I really want the beanie babies now” predicament, it helps to say, “I know you really want the beanie babies. So first hold the reins and steer, then you get the beanie babies.”
Or if you have a student that is really fixated on something after the lesson, like getting McDonalds, and they keep talking about it, tell them “First ride, then McDonalds.”
Hope this helps!
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Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgement!
Very effective for kids on the spectrum!