Creating a dynamic and engaging martial arts program for pre-school-age students such as Little Dragons or Little Ninjas requires a carefully structured session that combines fun, education, and physical activity.

Here’s how you can structure a class to keep young learners excited and involved:

Detailed Class Structure for Pre-School Martial Arts:

  1. Introduction to Sharing

    • Duration: 2 minutes
    • Activity: Start with a circle time or a gathering around the instructor to discuss "What is sharing?" Allow children to raise hands and answer, discuss who and what they can share, and how sharing benefits others.

  2. Warm-Ups

    • Duration: 3 minutes
    • Activity: Engage in fun warm-up activities such as follow-the-leader with actions like running, slow jumping jacks, or crawling over and under obstacles. This keeps the activities dynamic and fun.

  3. Jab Punch Introduction

    • Duration: 2 minutes
    • Activity: Teach the jab punch in front of a mirror. Start in slow motion, performing six jabs on each side, then do a set of slow followed by fast jabs.

  4. Back Hand Punch

    • Duration: 2 minutes
    • Activity: Teach a slow backhand punch followed by a faster version, six sets on each side.

  5. Target Practice

    • Duration: 10 minutes
    • Activity: Use a frisbee-like flyer with the center cut out to focus on punching accuracy. Progress to using a body shield for children to practice various strikes like jabs, cross punches, knee strikes, and front kicks. Each child takes turns hitting the target while the rest of the class counts the strikes.

  6. Block Practice

    • Duration: 6 minutes
    • Activity: Practice low and high blocks against blockers or noodles. Instructors randomly swing to simulate low and high attacks, helping kids react and block accordingly.

  7. Cleanup and Review

    • Duration: Varies
    • Activity: End the class with a summary of the day’s message, announcements, and a cleanup time. Celebrate the day's learning with high fives, stickers, and clapping to build energy and positivity.

This class structure not only teaches martial arts techniques but also incorporates valuable life lessons and physical activities tailored to the developmental needs of pre-schoolers. By focusing on fun, interactive, and educational elements, you ensure that your martial arts program for young children is both engaging and beneficial.