Teaching young children in martial arts can be a bit tricky. While it’s important to keep them engaged by making drills fun, this approach might raise concerns with uninformed parents who are paying for their child to learn martial arts. Miscommunication and misconceptions can lead to losing a student, so it's crucial to manage both the children’s learning experience and the parents’ expectations.
Managing Expectations: From "Games" to "Drills"
To a child, saying they played "games" during martial arts class might sound like fun. However, when that message gets back to the parents, they might question the value of your program. They could think, "Why should I pay for martial arts classes when my child is just playing games?"
The key is never to refer to activities as “games” when speaking to young students. Instead, always frame them as “drills” or “tests.” This subtle shift in language can change the perception of what’s happening in your classes, ensuring that both students and parents understand the value of the training.
Educating the Parents: Building Allies
One of the most effective ways to prevent misunderstandings is to educate the parents on the teaching methods you use. When parents understand how martial arts training benefits their child, they become your allies. They’ll encourage their child to practice at home and will be more willing to invest in continued lessons.
Consider holding a parents' orientation class shortly after a new student signs up. This session provides an opportunity to explain your teaching methods and the benefits of martial arts training for young children.
For example, what might look like a game of dodgeball to the uninformed eye is actually an evasion drill designed to improve a child's reflexes and spatial awareness. Similarly, what appears to be children running around wildly might be a speed drill meant to help them evade a potential threat. By explaining the purpose behind each activity, you reassure parents that their child is receiving valuable training.
Character Building Through Stories
Martial arts is renowned for building character, especially in young students. One of the most effective ways to teach character-building traits to children is through storytelling.
Children love to be read to, and stories provide a fun and engaging way to convey important life lessons. You can create your own tales about martial arts heroes or adapt well-known stories to include martial arts themes. Focus on character issues like honesty, sharing, honor, persistence, and obedience.
For example, a story about a martial arts hero who learns the importance of honesty can leave a lasting impression on a child. Not only do these stories help instill positive values, but they also create a positive interaction between you and your students, which will be noticed and appreciated by their parents.
Conclusion: Satisfied Students and Happy Parents
By framing fun activities as structured drills and educating parents about the benefits of your teaching methods, you can maintain the trust and satisfaction of both your young students and their parents. This approach ensures that parents see the value in the training their child receives, leading to better retention and a more positive experience for everyone involved.