Age
We often receive calls from parents who, understanding how broadly beneficial
good martial arts training can be for their children, are interested in determining
whether a child is old enough to begin the training.
We consider three variables when we determine whether to allow a child to enroll
in our junior curriculum:
- Level of motor developmental skills
- Cognitive level
- Origin of interest and expectations of the student
Almost all children are ready to begin our curriculum by about six years of age; a significant percentage of five-year-olds
are motorically and cognitively advanced enough; and, occasionally, a child of four can thrive in the classes.
Child Development
Since martial arts can be so important for a child's development, we strongly urge parents
not to rush the child into an activity which, while fun in part, has an element of work and
repetitiveness that the younger child might find too difficult. Play-type environments, masquerading
as martial arts schools, may keep the child's attention, but fail to instill the most important elements
for a child's complete development which a professionally designed and administered program would offer.
Although many schools treat martial arts predominantly as a game, sport, or fantasy activity, we teach children's
martial arts as a:
- Foundation for physical/athletic skills of all types
- Tool for improving concentration and critical thinking skills for academic enhancement
- General practice for self-discipline, self-control, and self-esteem
- Model environment to learn respect for self and others.
Direction
Of course the child should be having fun while learning, but the child should be directed to:
- Discover how to overcome the obstacles and challenges of life
- Become self-directed and self-motivated
- Develop self-confidence and courage
- Learn both cooperative social behaviors and leadership skills
- Gain awareness and control of his/her body
We try for an equal balance of sweat and smiles.
Please call 452-3618 to schedule a visit for you and your child during one of our class observation periods.
