"Once every couple of weeks I would mix things up on the track by making them go the opposite direction than usual.

To keep track of their laps I used a washable marker and "dot" the top of their hands until they completed all the laps required for that day. They seemed to like markers that had letters or numbers on them.

We also had the children and parents sign a "contract" stating that they could only miss so many practices or they would be dropped from the team. We had our own team shirt made and I didn't actually drop any child for missed practices, but I did not give them a team shirt if they missed too many practices.

On days that were particularly hot one of the moms brought a couple of spray bottles. Every time a child passed two spots on the track they ran through an invigorating shower of water. They really LOVED this!

I also gave positive rewards for great participation. The kids that didn't miss more than 3 practices received a special lunch party. It was inexpensive and it gave them a goal."