HOMEParent FAQ
How old does a child need to be to start?
It depends on the child. Many four year old children demonstrate the maturity to pay attention during a 60-minute class and follow instructions well, but then there are older children who are unable to generate the same level of focus. That's one of the reasons we encourage everyone to try a free class first. At our school the minimum age to begin is FOUR years of age. Children must have reached their fifth birthday before trying our classes.
We expect our students to:
- be able to focus and understand simple instructions
- treat teachers and other children with courtesy
- treat the school and equipment with respect
- obey safety rules
- handle bathroom needs without instructor assistance
- try hard and participate in class activities with enthusiasm
How many times a week should my child come to class?
We recommend 2 classes per week consistently for best results. Consistent attendance is the key to progress. Students who do not come to class consistently often feel out of place and then do not want to come to class. Although a beginning student may do well attending only once per week, when they reach the more advance belt levels it will become necessary to attend more frequently in order to master advanced-level material. It is NOT possible to attain Black Belt by attending only one class per week at an advanced level.
Should my child be practicing at home?
Children will need some home practice of their Patterns (forms), especially as they climb higher on the belt ladder. We do not want children demonstrating kicks and punches outside of class, however they can practice their patterns or one-steps in an approved area at home with plenty of space.
How can I help my child practice / study?
For children of all ages, the most important thing you can do is ask about their class and especially review the "Word of the Month" character development topic in conversation. For older children, you can help them study their testing material by making flash cards from their syllabus material. For help with patterns, you can find videos of them on You Tube!
We also recommend the website www.itf-information.com for detailed printed steps of all the patterns.
What do the instructors expect from my child?
We expect our students to give their best effort. Technique at the early stages of training is not as important as a positive attitude. If a student tries hard and has a good attitude, they will develop better techniques over time because they are listening and learning.
What are the dress code requirements?
There are different uniforms for different styles of martial arts, and also for each school. We require that students wear our school uniforms, which are available at reception. Uniforms should be worn to all classes. Please wear full uniform at all times (top, bottom & belt). Please keep uniforms clean, pressed, and hemmed. Un-hemmed pants can be very dangerous! Jewellery, watches, and hard hair clips may not be worn in class. No shoes or socks may be worn in the classroom.
Why can't may child wear socks in class?
Socks are dangerous to train in, as it is so easy to slip while running or kicking. However, if your child has a contagious verruca, wart, or other foot problem, please keep their socks on until it has healed, and just let the instructor know why your child has socks on.
Do we get a discount if two in the family join?
Yes, of course! When more than one member of the same family join (same address) they each receive a 15% discount from their martial arts class fees.
What if we're going to be away on holidays?
If you pay-as-you-go and are absent for two weeks without giving us notice, then your place in class will be forfeit. If you have a prepaid membership, you can to "freeze" your membership for up to 8 weeks per year for pre-planned holidays. Requests must be IN WRITING and in ADVANCE of the date in question. We cannot back-date an extension, we can only help you if we get advance notice of your absence.
What if my child gets sick and misses class?
We can add on up to 8 weeks of classes per year for illness or injury. A note from your GP / Physio / Chiropractor is required. The note must state length of time you will need to be absent from class for health reasons.
How do the students earn "stars" in class?
Each month there will be an in-class progress review, which we call "Star Test". Children are given a combination of moves each month to practice until perfect. If they have learned their movements sufficiently, they are awarded a progress star on their file. When they have achieved the required number of stars, then they will be eligible to test formally for their next belt. Details can be found on the notice board.
What is a Grading Ceremony / Belt Testing?
Grading (or testing) is a process where we evaluate the skills of each student to determine whether they are ready to progress to the next level of training. What is expected of students depends on the age and rank of the student. What is required to pass testing increases dramatically as a student progresses in rank. Testing costs ?25.00 for white and colour-belt students.
How long does it take to become a Black Belt?
This varies dramatically from person to person. It is possible for someone to achieve Black Belt in as little as 3 years, however most people take 5 years or more to reach Black Belt. But remember, Black belt is only the beginning, not the end, of martial arts training. Black Belt indicates that the wearer is a serious student of the art.
Will martial arts make my child a bully?
No. Our school has a strong anti-bully policy, and we reinforce strong moral codes in all of our classes. Our classes instil confidence and courtesy in our students, and our students understand that they learn kicking and punching only for FUN and for emergencies. Anyone who uses the martial arts in a hurtful way is not allowed to attend classes at our school.
What if my child uses kicking or punching at home or at school?
Tell our instructors immediately. While we understand that students can be a little over-anxious to show off, this can be dangerous. Please inform us as soon as possible so we can take steps to help reinforce the rule straight away.
When do I have to buy Sparring Gear? And what Sparring Gear is required?
The earlier you get sparring gear, the sooner you can get more practice, more skill, and more comfortable with sparring. Sparring gear is required at green-tag level. Sparring is part of the Grading Test from this stage onward, and is part of every class. Students are required to have approved head gear, foot pads, closed-finger gloves, shin guards, groin guards (boys) and gum shields. Equipment can be ordered at reception.
What if I have questions or concerns about my child or the classes?
Talk to us! Our instructors are available for parent conferences by appointment, to give you our 100% attention and any help we can. Please give us a call to set one up. Between classes we are busy being teachers and may not have time for a proper discussion! 065-6893820 or info@bannermaf.com
Can I stay and watch my child's class?
Of course! We have two parent viewing areas available! There is a viewing area for quiet observation only right inside the classroom. There is also viewing (both both window and TV!) from our reception area for those who have small children, or need to talk on their phones, etc.
Do I have to stay while my child is in class?
No. Life is hectic and we all have 10 places to be at the same time! We only ask that you wait with your child until class begins, and be on hand to collect your child when class has finished.
Are your classes all about kicking and punching?
No! Our school teaches character development through the vehicle of the martial arts! We have joined forces with a leading Child Psychologist to implement a proven Character Development program into our curriculum. Check out our notice board in reception for the latest "Word of the Month" and character-building homework assignments. We teach a daily Character-Lesson in each of our classes, and provide age-appropriate assignments that children can discuss and complete at home with their parents to enforce valuable life lessons.
What martial art is this?
The style of martial art that we teach here is called Taekwon-do, and it comes from Korea. It is a method of self-defence incorporating punching & kicking techniques. Children love the fun and energetic physical training, and are challenged by the mental focus involved in traditional forms (patterns).
Our Martial Arts Pre-School (ages 4 & 5) prepares children for our Taekwon-do Programs with fun games designed to improve focus, listening, balance, and eye/hand coordination. Children learn social and leadership skills, and the ability to follow instructions.
There are two different styles of Taekwon-do, ITF and WTF. We practice ITF style.
How can I be sure I know what's going on?
All policies, terms & conditions, changes, schedules, cancellations, upcoming events.etc. can be found on our Notice Board in reception and our Website. Please make sure we have your up-to-date contact information, as important notices will be sent to your email address and any urgent cancellations will be sent to your mobile phone.