Self-Esteem | Lock-ins | Presentations

 

Junior Taekwondo training classes are conducted for children 5-13 years of age. During Taekwondo training, children develop self-defense and sparring skills in a training environment that stresses honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, and community—all skills that help children develop into responsible adults. 

Michael Deese's Taekwondo America is dedicated to teaching Taekwondo to children. Children train in classes with other children, no older children or adults. Classes are divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes so that each child receives the instruction and personal attention he or she needs to develop his or her individual physical and mental skills. Classes are taught by certified instructors who are not only trained to instruct Taekwondo but also in methods to teach and motivate children. Classes are a highly structured mixture of tough Taekwondo training drills and fun games that stress the Taekwondo skills they are learning. Children have fun while developing the self-confidence they will need to face problems in their everyday lives. Another fun school activity for children is the lock-in.

Children learn to avoid unnecessary confrontation and how to defend themselves when it cannot be avoided. The skills they learn during Taekwondo training, such as concentration and goal setting, give them the confidence to excel in other areas of their lives, such as school work, sports, and social interaction, both with adults and children of their own age. School performance is tracked by instructors, good grades are rewarded and, if grades and/or school behavior drop, training is suspended for them until they improve. Students who are doing okay in school may request that Mr. Deese come to their school and make a  Taekwondo presentation.

The desire to achieve the next belt level is a driving force in motivating students. Earning the next colored belt gives a child a tremendous feeling of accomplishment. Students learn that hard work and perseverance have their rewards.

Taekwondo is not just a martial art, it is a total lifestyle activity. Not only do children develop their physical abilities, they also develop strength of character through the emphasis placed on the tenets of Taekwondo.

Taekwondo develops moral character in children by:

• Promoting courtesy toward parents, elders, and peers

• Reinforcing moral values

• Teaching discipline and self-control

• Developing strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance

• Encouraging success in academics

• Improving self-esteem and self-confidence

Most of this happens without the children even being aware of it. They are too busy having fun!