When I was a kid my dad loved to throw the ball, shoot hoops, or start my go-cart. He'd cheer me on in the final straight away of my driveway race track. These were our ways of bonding and my dad encouraging me. As I got older, it was wrestling and climbing. He found ways to help me practice or drive me to the gym, encourage me in the difficult times (making weight while wrestling), and showing up to my matches and competitions. I remember these past times, these memories of him supporting and helping me to be the person I am today. Now, it's time for me to do the same with my kids.
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I don't know if fishtailing around a gravel driveway as fast as you can in a go-kart is an approved kid activity anymore, but let's talk about being a martial arts parent.
I think we can agree that supporting and encouraging our children will increase their interest, whatever the activity. Martial arts has so much to offer children. As children progress in martial arts they gain confidence and build self- esteem. It helps with mind development, agility and strength, helping to develop a more unbreakable spirit, and learn to be proud of who they are. In quality programs, children will be surrounded by peers who are also developing the same positive moral values and learning to support each other. These will become their friends for life.
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An in-class experience is only half the journey. As parents, it's important for us to encourage and model the good traits that we are trying to instill in our children. We must be consistent and hold them accountable (i.e. getting them to class on time and encouraging practice). We don't ask our kids if they WANT to go to school. We send them because we want them to be the best person that they can be! (And, no. Not because the state tells us we have too.) It should be the same expectation with martial arts class. They are learning skills. As students, they need to be in class to reap the benefits from the program. They need to keep their training consistent and always have goals for the future. My advice is make the process of going to class a fun experience! Create a "going to class" ritual or routine, like sharing a post-class snack or meal. Ask about class and ask them to show you what they've learned. Kids love to show off, as we all know already.
After every testing, we take our daughter out for a meal to celebrate HER. We invite grand parents and friends to join and cheer her on. They are little rockstars! Celebrate their hard work and let them know how proud you are of them!
Parental involvement is a huge boost in the success of any child. We have the ability to interact with them and enjoy, together, their hobby and develop strong bonds and lifelong memories. The more we can find ways to share activities with our kids the tighter the family will be. Families that practice martial arts together have a very high probability of sticking it out together. There's that accountability talk again. Practicing with your kids in family fun time is a great way to turn off the screens and get moving. Even if you don't learn it all with them, actively watching them and or getting them to teach you a couple moves is a great moment to share with your kiddo. Holding a target or board for them is another great way to show you're there for them. When you say "You've got this", they can say it back! Let them release some of that wild energy while these deeper connections are being made.
Get some good habits or traditions started. Don't overthink it though, because they don't have to be a big deal. Simple things, like walk out in the back yard and do some kicks. Let them tell you the coolest part of class while enjoying a snack, and celebrate the next time they do something awesome! Keeping them moving in a positive motion is the most important job of parents!!
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We love Century Martial Arts equipment! It is quality material and a lot of it is American made. Please make sure that you know how to use the equipment properly before using. Get involved in a martial arts program and learn proper techniques so you do not get hurt!
Hand Targets are great for practicing blocking, punching, and kicking!
Body blockers are great for building forts and building striking power!
Re-breakable boards are a great way to practice breaking boards and release some energy!
Century Discount Code! CMA00416 With my code you get 10% off and free shipping if you spend $100.
