Quality vs. Quantity

The MATA Children’s Curriculum emphasizes that "less is best." By reducing the number of testing requirements, instructors can concentrate on the quality of techniques rather than being overwhelmed by teaching a large quantity of material.

This approach allows students to master what they learn, rather than just skimming through a broad range of techniques.

Theme-Based Curriculum

Our theme-based curriculum is a unique approach to teaching martial arts to children, focusing more on methods rather than just techniques. This is what makes our children’s program so effective.

One of the biggest challenges instructors face when teaching children is trying to cover an overwhelming number of forms, techniques, one-steps, kata, self-defense, and sparring drills. This can lead to students feeling discouraged and instructors experiencing burnout.

The reality is that all students have a limited amount of practice time. When that time is spread too thin across many techniques, the result is often mediocre performance and frustrated students.

MATA’s theme-based curriculum flips this traditional approach on its head. It reduces the number of required techniques, allowing students to focus more on perfecting the basics. With fewer physical techniques to learn, students can dedicate more time to practice and refinement.

To illustrate, consider two students: Student A must learn 100 techniques, while Student B needs to learn just ten.

Over the same period, Student B can practice each technique ten times more than Student A. This leads to greater competence and confidence.

This method also frees up time for instructors to introduce key personal development skills, which are a cornerstone of the MATA Children’s Curriculum.

Each belt level in the curriculum introduces a new and engaging theme, making every rank a fresh and exciting experience.

Curriculum Themes by Belt Level

  • Level One - The Basics
    This foundational level focuses on teaching the basic fundamentals of martial arts.

  • Level Two - Partner Training
    Here, students practice their techniques with a partner. While the techniques build on what was learned in Level One, the method of practice adds a new dynamic and purpose.

  • Level Three - Pad Power
    This level allows instructors to review and refine techniques learned in Levels One and Two. It also introduces fun elements like bag work, jump kicks, and padded weapons practice, offering a balanced mix of review and creative, engaging activities.

The theme-based curriculum addresses the common problem of student dropouts, particularly within the first 100 classes, by offering a fun and creative approach with straightforward rank requirements.

Each of the 12 ranks, from white belt to black belt, introduces a unique theme, keeping students motivated and eager to learn.