As a martial arts instructor with years of experience in teaching Taekwondo to children, I understand how important it is to choose the right school for your child. Taekwondo offers many benefits for children, including improved physical fitness, self-confidence, discipline, and respect for others.
However, not all Taekwondo schools are created equal, and it’s crucial to do your research before enrolling your child. In this article, I will provide you with 10 questions to ask before choosing a Taekwondo school for your child, based on my personal experience and expertise.
Question 1: What is the school’s philosophy?
A Taekwondo school’s philosophy can have a significant impact on your child’s training experience. Some schools focus primarily on competition and winning medals, while others prioritize character development and personal growth. It’s important to choose a school that aligns with your child’s goals and values. For example, if your child is shy and lacks self-confidence, a school that emphasizes personal growth and building self-esteem may be a better fit.
Question 2: What is the instructor’s experience and credentials?
The instructor is one of the most critical factors in your child’s training. A qualified instructor with experience in teaching children can make all the difference in ensuring that your child receives quality instruction and stays motivated. Look for an instructor who holds a black belt in Taekwondo and has experience teaching children.
I have seen firsthand how the right instructor can inspire children to achieve their full potential. As a Taekwondo instructor, I had a student who was initially shy and lacked self-confidence. However, through my guidance and encouragement, he developed a love for Taekwondo and became one of the most skilled and confident students in the class.
Question 3: What is the school’s safety record?
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a Taekwondo school for your child. Ask the school about their safety measures, such as protective gear, proper techniques, and qualified supervision. Additionally, make sure the school has a clean and well-maintained training facility.
I have personally witnessed the importance of safety in Taekwondo training. One of my students once sustained an injury during class, and I immediately stopped the class to ensure that she received proper medical attention. By taking swift action, we were able to prevent the injury from becoming more severe and ensure the safety of all the students.
Question 4: What is the class size and student-to-instructor ratio?
Class size and student-to-instructor ratio can have a significant impact on your child’s training experience. A small class size with a low student-to-instructor ratio can ensure that your child receives personalized attention and instruction. On the other hand, a large class size with a high student-to-instructor ratio may result in your child receiving less individual attention and instruction.
I always made sure to keep my class sizes small and maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio. This allowed us to give each student personalized attention and instruction, which I believe is crucial for their growth and development.
Question 5: What is the school’s schedule and location?
The school’s schedule and location should be convenient for you and your child. Look for a school that offers classes at times that work for your schedule and is located in a safe and accessible area. Additionally, consider factors such as traffic, parking, and transportation options.
Question 6: What is the school’s approach to discipline?
Discipline is a crucial aspect of Taekwondo training, but it’s essential to choose a school that uses positive reinforcement and encourages good behavior rather than punishment and negative reinforcement. Ask the school about their approach to discipline and how they handle challenging students.
Our team always use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior in our students. For example, we give out merit stripes or small rewards to students who demonstrate good behavior or show improvement in their skills. I found that this approach was more effective than punishment in creating a positive and motivating learning environment.
Question 7: What is the school’s approach to competition?
Competition can be a motivating factor for many children, but it’s important to choose a school that has a healthy and balanced approach to competition. Look for a school that emphasizes personal growth and development rather than just winning medals.
I often see schools that place too much emphasis on winning medals and trophies. However, I believe that Taekwondo is about more than just competition. It’s about developing physical fitness, discipline, self-confidence, and respect for others. That’s why I always try to balance competition with personal growth and development in my classes.
Question 8: What is the school’s policy on parental involvement?
Parental involvement can have a significant impact on your child’s training experience. Look for a school that encourages parental involvement and has an open-door policy for parents to observe classes and communicate with instructors.
I always encourage parental involvement in our classes. I find that parents who are involved in their child’s training are more likely to support and motivate their child outside of class. Additionally, having parents observe classes and communicate with instructors can provide valuable feedback for both the instructor and the student.
Question 9: What is the school’s culture and community like?
The culture and community of a Taekwondo school can have a significant impact on your child’s training experience. Look for a school that has a positive and supportive culture and a welcoming and inclusive community.
As a Taekwondo school that teaches from a Christian perspective, our culture is one of inclusion, respect, and encouragement. We believe in creating a positive and supportive environment where students of all backgrounds and skill levels feel welcome and supported in their martial arts journey. Our instructors strive to foster a sense of community and inspire our students to become their best selves both on and off the mat
Question 10: What is the school’s philosophy and values?
Lastly, it’s important to consider the school’s philosophy and values. Look for a school that aligns with your own values and promotes positive values such as respect, discipline, and perseverance.
I always emphasize the importance of values such as respect, discipline, and perseverance. I believe that these values are not only crucial for success in Taekwondo but also for success in life. That’s why I always look for students who demonstrate these values both inside and outside of class.
In conclusion, choosing a Taekwondo school for your child is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By asking these ten questions, you can ensure that you choose a school that is safe, effective, and aligns with your values and goals. Remember, Taekwondo is not just about physical fitness and martial arts skills; it’s also about personal growth, development, and becoming a better person.
If you are in the Swift Current area and would like to try a class for either yourself or your child, register for a free class today!
Gary Voysey
Master Voysey has been practicing martial arts for over 30 years. He is currently a 4th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo
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