Building Trust with New Students in Adapted PE

Connection comes before curriculum.

In Adapted Physical Education, the most important thing you’ll teach isn’t on your lesson plan—it’s trust. Before we can support skill development or physical fitness, we need to create a classroom environment where every student feels safe, respected, and valued.

This month, I’m sharing the simple but powerful strategies I use to build trust from day one. These practices set the foundation for all the learning—and fun—that comes later.

🤝 Why Trust Matters in Adapted PE

For many of our students, school (and especially P.E.) can be unpredictable or even overwhelming. New teachers, new routines, and unfamiliar spaces may trigger anxiety or behavioral responses.

When you lead with connection, you help students feel grounded—and that makes everything else possible.

✅ Key Strategies to Build Trust Early

1. Greet Students by Name

Start with the basics. Greeting students individually as they enter class sets the tone for belonging. Use their names, offer a choice of greeting (wave, high five, smile), and make eye contact if appropriate.

💡 Tip: If you're new to the students, use name tags or visuals to help you learn names quickly. This simple habit builds relationship equity fast.

2. Assign Classroom Jobs

Giving students small responsibilities builds ownership and inclusion. Assign simple, accessible tasks like:

• Equipment Helper

• Schedule Flipper

• Line Leader

• “Calm Down Kit” Monitor

Even students with significant support needs can participate with visuals, prompts, or assistance.

💡 Tip: Rotate jobs weekly and post them visually so everyone knows their role.

3. Celebrate Every Success—Big or Small

In Adapted PE, progress looks different for every student. Celebrate effort, participation, teamwork, and personal wins—not just physical skill. This builds confidence and shows students that you see and value their growth.

💡 Tip: Use simple shout-outs, stickers, high fives, or "Star of the Day" visuals to recognize positive moments.

📥 Free Resource: Getting to Know You Survey

Use this student-friendly survey (with visuals!) to learn about your students’ preferences, motivators, and communication styles.👉 Download the Survey

📘 Dive Deeper in the Manual

Get step-by-step guidance on building relationships, establishing routines, and supporting every learner in The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual

Includes editable templates, visuals, and personal stories from over a decade of experience.

🔍 Keywords:

Adapted PE, building trust, student engagement, special education routines, inclusive PE, relationship-building, classroom jobs, student success

💬 How Do You Build Trust?

I’d love to hear your first-week wins. What strategies help you connect with students? Drop a comment below or tag @easy.adapted.pe with your ideas—I may feature your tip in a future post!