Yes! In classes we are always working in large or small groups, and learning how to speak to and interact with others in a way that is polite and constructive.  We play games that require teamwork skills to achieve goals, and rely on communication to complete tasks. While rewards are earned based on individual performance, we still incorporate teamwork in our classes.

We hear this question a lot! Persistence is a big part of martial arts. Students are taught new skills, then are told to go home and practice them.  They are not awarded a stripe or a belt until they have shown that they have studied the skill. If they do not perform well the first time, they are told to try again during the next class.  We may study a single skill for weeks, or even months.

The first skill we discuss is focus.  We talk about how difficult it is to focus for long periods of time, but we achieve good things when we are focused. At ages 3, 4, and 5, students are at their most inquisitive, and it can be difficult for them to remain on task, so we implement a reward system. If you use your focus skills, you earn a stripe. At those ages, students are motivated by little rewards and accomplishments, so we are sure to create an environment that allows them to be successful, and adjust our expectations according to their ages..  If they complete the class successfully, they are rewarded, and they understand that if they continue to use their focus and behave respectfully, they will continue to earn stripes.

Yes! We pride ourselves on taking students of all abilities, and on our competence with students that have some difficulty with gross or fine motor functions at any age.  At ages 3, 4, and 5, we focus on enhancing coordination, balance, and fitness through exercise, stretching, and challenges requiring them to use these skills.  We focus on improving strength and general physical fitness in every class, and parents often see vast improvements after a few months of classes.