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Step 1
Define your expectations for the program. Is it merely for recreation? Does the child need exercise or discipline? Is it to be a convenient after-school program? Does he or she wish to participate in competitions? Is there a reason that a specific style or school is being sought?
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Step 2
Consult local telephone books and Internet to assemble a list of nearby martial arts schools. Consult with friends and associates, as often martial arts programs, particularly those not being run for profit, will not be listed and rely solely on word of mouth.
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Step 3
Contact the closest schools (or those of the proper style if this is a consideration). Ask the school if they have a children’s program, when it is held and what the driving principles behind it are. Ask schools directly what they charge and if there are additional fees for uniforms, lockers and showers, testing or anything else. Ask if the employees have submitted to any type of a background check and if they have relevant skills and certifications (such as CPR) beyond their martial arts rank. Use this information to compile a short list of possibilities.
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Step 4
Ask to visit each school to watch a class and observe the teaching styles. Bring the child, if possible, to help determine which school seems to be the best fit.
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Step 5
Investigate the possibility of a trial period before any long-term contracts are signed. Many children lose interest in martial arts in a short period of time and, unfortunately, some schools will require a 12- to 24-month commitment.
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Step 6
Choose the school that seems to be the best choice in the context of the needs determined in earlier steps.
Comments
ehowhaney said
on 9/15/2007 this is a great article.
I have heard that Ernie Reyes' World Martial Arts association schools have the best childrens programs due to Master Ernie Reyes' teaching philosphies.