Training Tips
Are you getting ready to facilitate a training of your own after attending a Training for Trainers or Facilitator Training? Below are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind as you begin planning.
Know the Program
Study curriculum kits and the training manuals beforehand so you are familiar with them. Teach lessons from the curriculum before the training so you can share stories or ideas from your experiences.
Find or Create the Best Training Space
Choose a training room large enough to accommodate your group and training activities. Ensure there is adequate lighting, comfortable room temperature, and comfortable seating in the training room.
Consider taking the training off-site. Community centers, libraries, churches, or other schools/universities often donate space for such trainings.
Be Organized
Have the training room, handouts, flipcharts, media presentations, and AV equipment in place and prepared before the training begins. Have plenty of curriculum kits available in the training for group activities. Place toys (for example, Koosh balls, Legos, Play Doh) and/or markers and paper on tables for tactile learners.
Create a Welcoming Environment
Individually greet your training participants as they arrive and provide each person with a name tag (especially if the group participants do not know each other well). Prepare for "creature comforts." Provide snacks, beverages, and lunch (if possible). Play music before the training and during breaks.
Make the Training Fun
Be enthusiastic about the program. Co-train with others, if possible, and consider inviting the sponsor to speak about his or her vision of the program. Incorporate humor, cartoons, stories, brainteasers, breaks, and movement/physical activity throughout the training.
You'll also find ideas for ice breakers and energizers in the Training Forum in our online community.
Be a Resource
Provide opportunities for the group to ask questions throughout the training. If you do not know the answer to a question, get back with the group/individual with the answer. Be available for follow-up and technical support after the training.
Keep the Momentum Going
Read about keeping program momentum going with booster trainings.
