ATA TIGER OATH
I PROMISE:
TO BE A GOOD PERSON,
KNOWLEDGE IN MY MIND,
HONESTY IN MY HEART,
STRENGTH IN MY BODY,
TO MAKE GOOD FRIENDS,
AND...
TO BECOME A
BLACK BELT LEADER!
Ara is a shy turtle. Before joining the TIGER classes he usually just stayed in his shell. Now he is making friends and loves to do his forms nice and slow. His favorite move is a knife hand strike.
ATA TIGERS: AGES 4-6
"In order for someone to earn the rank of black belt there are three attributes a person must strive for. Those values are belief in oneself, the desire to face challenges and unwavering commitment." - Master Ronald F. Burch Jr.
Why Martial Arts for Kids Ages: 4-6?
Encourages Physical Activity
Limiting screen time is a great idea when it comes to getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be more active, but it only goes so far. Enrolling an inactive child is such a physically demanding pasttime not only discourages the sedentary lifestyle she's used to, but also gives her an enjoyable activity that inspires her to keep moving.
Fosters Self-Discipline
One of the central tenets of all forms of the martial arts is to focus on self-discipline. Today's kids are so accustomed to receiving instant gratification that lessons in self-restraint and the discipline aren't always easy to come by. Kids with a martial arts background, however, are continually reminded of how essential self-discipline must be developed.
Instills a Sense of Respect
During the process of learning Songham Taekwondo your child will learn to show her instructor and parents respect. Today's culture doesn't always demonstrate respect for authority, adults or those in advanced positions. When she goes to her Songham TaeKwonDo class though, your child will be learning lessons in respect along with new moves.
Encourages Non-Violent Conflict Resolution
Many defensive styles teach kids peaceful, non-violent conflict resolution skills and emphasize the importance of avoiding a physical altercation.
Improving Listening Skills
In order to master the skills she's being taught and advance through the ranks, your child will learn exercise superior listening skills. Kids who struggle with paying attention to what they are told can benefit from the verbal instruction and one-on-one work in her classroom.
Improvement in Other Areas of Life
The benefits of martial arts training doesn't end in the classroom. The boost in confidence, increased fitness level and new cooperation skills will also help your child navigate the academic and social aspects of school, affect his behavior at home and have an all-around good influence on him as he develops into an adult.
Develops Teamwork Skills
Whether he's breaking boards to get a new belt or sparring in a practice setting to master a new maneuver, there are few things that your child does in his martial arts classes that will be done on his own. Working together to learn new things and accomplish goals is an important life lesson for kids to learn, and instruction in the martial arts can help your child learn that lesson.
Boosts Socialization Skills
Kids who don't always thrive in highly social environments may find it easier to get to know people and make new friends when they're in a room filled with peers who share a common interest. The kids on the playground may not always have much common ground, but devotees to the martial arts are able to get to know one another through shared pursuits. Partner-driven training can also foster camaraderie, as kids pair off and build their skills together.