Wednesday, January 23, 2013

How do I choose a Martial Arts School for my child?


          Step one in choosing a school is to clearly understand what you want your child to gain from learning the martial arts.  Is it a light recreation?  Then a community center program may suffice.  Is it self-defense or personal development?  If so, then a full time professional school will be more suited for the child.  Many parents view the martial arts as part of their child’s educational development.  With a good professional school, this is very possible.

 
            Step two is to recognize that choosing a school is really choosing an instructor.  Be sure to visit the school and watch the instructor work with other children of the same age.  Every school is different because every instructor is different because every instructor is different.  See how the instructor interacts with the children and look for sincere interest in the children’s progress.  Don’t get confused by claims of black belt degrees, tournament wins or marital art styles.  The only style that matters is the teaching style of the instructor and how your child will respond to him or her.

 
            Finally, trust your instincts.  A professional school will have a family atmosphere, lots of smiles and be well kept.  You’ll feel comfortable with the personnel and the facility.  Martial Arts schools are like any other business the customer comes first and you should feel like an honored guest.

 
            While this may not end up being the closest school to your house, when it comes to the safety and education of your child, an extra ten-minute drive can make a world of difference in the outcome. 
 

About the Author:

             Brandon Richards is a certified Grand Master Instructor in the Martial Art of Taekwondo and is the school director of Seattle Tae Kwon D in Mountlake Terrace, WA.  If you would like more information on how to choose a Martial Arts school in your area call (425) 775-0299 or email to master_richards@hotmail.com

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