How to Get Your Child Started in Martial Arts

Most children would literally jump at the chance to enroll into a martial arts class. The idea of jumping around like Bruce Lee and doing some really cool things is usually the top of any child's list. But before the class begins, there are several things which should be checked out first before you enroll your child into any martial arts school.

If your child shows an interest in joining a martial arts class you can either check out the yellow pages, or go on-line to check out the availability of any martial arts schools in your area. Try to find a martial art school which is conveniently located close to your home, because you'll probably be making two to three trips a week to this school.

Having practiced Tae Kwon Do for seven years I understand the importance in starting your child off in a safe and respectful school environment. Many important morals can be taught to your child if you take your time and pick out the right school.

Do a background check on the type of martial arts you're interested in. Once you've decided on the style of martial arts for your child, then you can pick which schools in your area to visit.

There are many different types of martial arts, and most of these have their own particular styles and areas of focus. Some of these schools are taught in a more traditional way than others. Be sure to check out the credibility of the school, and how long they've been in business. Also make sure to find out if the school is well established in the community.

Visit several martial art schools in your area and sit in on a class or two. Most martial art schools are open to the public and welcome visitors. Don't choose the very first class you visit, be sure to check out several schools in your area to get a well rounded opinion.

Listed below are some areas of focus which you should check out before enrolling your child. If you don't feel comfortable with a particular martial art school, visit another one until you feel a connection to the class, and its instructors.

Make a Visual Inspection of the Dojo or Classroom

Is the martial art school clean and child friendly? Does the equipment look safe for your child? What is the atmosphere at the school? Look at the school the same way which you would pick out a home for your child to live in because many hours will be spent in this establishment.

Check out the Attitude and the Emotional Structure of the school

As you watch the class workout notice the attitude of the students and also the instructors. Is the class run with respect for the students, and also the instructors? Do the students and the instructors work well together? Or is there turmoil with an unruly class. This is the basic framework of the school.

Notice if the Class is being taught with Discipline and Experience

Are the workouts being done in a formulated manner, and do the students respond well to the instructors? Is there good communication between the instructors and the students? These are essential elements for the development of your child's early martial arts experience.

Hours of Availability and Service

Be sure to find out if the school has children's classes, and how many times a week your child can attend. Some schools only allow certain days of attendance for different types of enrollment fees. Other schools have an open attendance policy, and can be attended as many times as you want.

Check out the credibility of the Master, and their Assistant Instructors

Find out who will be instructing the class your child will be attending. I would recommend attending a martial arts school with a master that has at least a 3rd or 4th degree black belt. Some schools are run by inexperienced instructors, so be sure to check it out thoroughly.

After the class has ended feel free to talk with some of the instructors or the master of the school. Find out exactly what the class has to offer your child, and what you can expect from your child after attending the class.

Be sure to find out what the tuition of the school is, and if there are any enrollment fees. Some schools also provide a free workout uniform for your child. Parents of other students can also provide some very valuable information which you might have overlooked.

Be sure to check out ahead of time what the cost of belt testing is for your child. Most schools are reasonable for this testing procedure. Always make sure you check out the "total cost" of everything before you sign on the dotted line. Some types of martial arts testing is very expensive; the higher the belt the more expensive the test.

Let your instincts guide you through this experience. If you're not comfortable with the martial art school you attended visit another one until you find the right martial art school which feels comfortable for you and your child.

Take your time and do your homework when it comes to picking out a martial arts school for your child. What your child stands to gain from this experience is: discipline, respect, increased confidence, integrity, and personal self control. Enrolling your child into a martial art class may turn out to be the very thing which helps your child to grow into a responsible young adult.