Island Economics

San Juan Islands-specific considerations for this business:

• •Small island means every kid knows every other kid—community cohesion built-in
• •Limited organized sports options means parents are eager for quality programming
• •Beautiful outdoor environment enables nature-based and water sports programming
• •Ferry constraints mean mainland sports leagues are often impractical
• •Seasonal population fluctuation affects year-round programming viability

The $500 Experiment

Test this idea before investing heavily:

Getting Started

1. 1
   Get proper certifications, background checks, and first aid training

   • •Background checks are essential and expected when working with minors
   • •Certifications demonstrate competence and professionalism to parents
   • •First aid training is crucial for handling injuries and emergencies
2. 2
   Learn age-appropriate training methods and child development

   • •5-year-olds and 12-year-olds need completely different approaches
   • •Understanding development stages prevents frustration for everyone
   • •Fun and engagement matter more than technique at young ages
3. 3
   Develop structured curriculum and practice plans

   • •Preparation makes sessions run smoothly and achieves learning goals
   • •Parents want to see their children improving—have a progression plan
   • •Structure prevents chaos while allowing flexibility
4. 4
   Build relationships with schools, rec departments, and community organizations

   • •Established organizations provide venues, registration, and credibility
   • •Partnerships reduce your marketing and administrative burden
   • •Schools and rec departments have built-in participant pipelines

Where the Money Goes

Expected startup and operating expenses:

Don't Cheap Out On

Areas where quality investment pays off:

Smart Places to Save

Areas where cost-cutting makes sense:

• •Partner with schools or rec departments who provide facilities
• •Start with sports requiring minimal equipment (soccer, running)
• •Use borrowed or shared equipment until you're established
• •Volunteer first to build reputation before charging
• •Offer group lessons rather than 1-on-1 to maximize hourly income

Cash Flow Considerations

Financial timing and planning notes:

• •Seasonal programming creates concentrated income periods
• •Camps (week-long) provide larger payments than per-session lessons
• •Require advance payment or registration deposits to commit families
• •Consider payment plans for seasonal programs to improve accessibility

Risk Reducers

Strategies to reduce risk and increase odds of success:

• •Never be alone with a single child—always have another adult or open environment
• •Get parental permission forms and emergency contacts before every session
• •Have clear policies for injuries, weather cancellations, and refunds
• •Know your limits—refer injuries to medical professionals immediately
• •Document incidents thoroughly when they occur
• •Build relationships with parents so they trust and support you

Island Economics

San Juan Islands-specific considerations for this business:

• •Small island means every kid knows every other kid—community cohesion built-in
• •Limited organized sports options means parents are eager for quality programming
• •Beautiful outdoor environment enables nature-based and water sports programming
• •Ferry constraints mean mainland sports leagues are often impractical
• •Seasonal population fluctuation affects year-round programming viability

The $500 Experiment

Test this idea before investing heavily:

Getting Started

1. 1
   Get proper certifications, background checks, and first aid training

   • •Background checks are essential and expected when working with minors
   • •Certifications demonstrate competence and professionalism to parents
   • •First aid training is crucial for handling injuries and emergencies
2. 2
   Learn age-appropriate training methods and child development

   • •5-year-olds and 12-year-olds need completely different approaches
   • •Understanding development stages prevents frustration for everyone
   • •Fun and engagement matter more than technique at young ages
3. 3
   Develop structured curriculum and practice plans

   • •Preparation makes sessions run smoothly and achieves learning goals
   • •Parents want to see their children improving—have a progression plan
   • •Structure prevents chaos while allowing flexibility
4. 4
   Build relationships with schools, rec departments, and community organizations

   • •Established organizations provide venues, registration, and credibility
   • •Partnerships reduce your marketing and administrative burden
   • •Schools and rec departments have built-in participant pipelines

Where the Money Goes

Expected startup and operating expenses:

Don't Cheap Out On

Areas where quality investment pays off:

Smart Places to Save

Areas where cost-cutting makes sense:

• •Partner with schools or rec departments who provide facilities
• •Start with sports requiring minimal equipment (soccer, running)
• •Use borrowed or shared equipment until you're established
• •Volunteer first to build reputation before charging
• •Offer group lessons rather than 1-on-1 to maximize hourly income

Cash Flow Considerations

Financial timing and planning notes:

• •Seasonal programming creates concentrated income periods
• •Camps (week-long) provide larger payments than per-session lessons
• •Require advance payment or registration deposits to commit families
• •Consider payment plans for seasonal programs to improve accessibility

Risk Reducers

Strategies to reduce risk and increase odds of success:

• •Never be alone with a single child—always have another adult or open environment
• •Get parental permission forms and emergency contacts before every session
• •Have clear policies for injuries, weather cancellations, and refunds
• •Know your limits—refer injuries to medical professionals immediately
• •Document incidents thoroughly when they occur
• •Build relationships with parents so they trust and support you