This Week at SCS May 12-16, 2008
May 12, 2008 by Ms.Crissi.
Happy Belated Mother’s Day to all you wonderful moms out there! We want to let you know how appreciated you are! Thank you for all you do!
This Week’s Events: Friday, May 16: Demo Practice 5:00 - 6:30 pm
Belt Promotion Ceremony: Li’l Champs & Juniors 7:00/Adults 8:15 Doors will open at 6:30!
Always Team Up-Never Give Up
By Sensei Craig Haley
As a child, growing up in the martial arts, our Kyoshi and Master KC LaVallee, both did an excellent job of instilling a Non-Quitting Spirit into me and many of my peers. Most parents are very supportive of their children committing to the lifestyle of a Black Belt Champion. However, they have concerns as to how we are going to keep their child motivated along the journey.
Here are a few key strategies we have learned. If you understand them and will work together with us, they will help your child reach their full potential:
Team Up Strategy #1}> Progress - Progress - Progress
~ When students see and feel progress, they naturally become more interested and motivated to continue. Earning stripes, belts, and praise and encouragement from their instructors and parents can keep a child on the fast track of success for years to come. Our encouragement is to be a GOOD-FINDER and to always point out all the progress and improvement you see in your child!
When a child has missed class due to a vacation or illness, our encouragement is to make up any missed classes as soon as possible. It is normal for ANYONE (kids or adults) to experience an “out of sight - out of mind” attitude temporarily. The way we overcome that is by getting them thinking about their next belt exam and what they need to do to achieve that goal.
Team Up Strategy #2}> SCS SPORT KARATE Events Calendar
~ We hold many motivational events and activities that are designed to provide motivation and inspiration for your children. Exam nights, BBC seminars, Black Belt Spectaculars, and Parents Night Out are just a few examples of events that can spark your child’s motivation and drive. Please keep them plugged in to the events calendar and watch the motivation happen!
Team Up Strategy #3}> Children are Present Mind Focused
~ Children rarely think in advance. They think about the present moment…playing with their friends, watching TV, or playing on the computer. Does that mean they don’t like Karate anymore? Absolutely not! Many times the transition from the current activity to coming to the dojo is the toughest part. You will see that once your child is in the dojo they LOVE their training and never want to leave. This is very common. Don’t let it frustrate you - Understand how kids think.
You can help this by reviewing Kyoshi’s Weekly Wisdom with your child on the car ride to the dojo, keeping your child on a consistent class schedule, and giving your child plenty of advanced notice on the days they come to class. This gives them time to prepare mentally and emotionally.
In our 30+ year history we’ve seen thousands of kids successfully complete the 3-5 year journey to Black Belt. Black Belt is a life-changing goal that will make an enormous impact on your child’s Attitude, Behavior, and Character development. The key is to work together and keep your child’s best interests at heart.
Thank you for your commitment and support!
