Teaching Kids for Kids: A Real Responsibility And A Joy

January 24, 2015

Taekwondo classes for children can be hard work for the instructors at Pacific International Taekwondo!

Teaching Taekwondo to kids can be a tough job, but at the same time, it can be a real joy. It’s also a big responsibility. Kids trust us because we are in a position of authority, and we need to validate that trust from them, and their parents.

To do this, Pacific International Taekwondo teaches them in a strong, caring “martial arts” atmosphere. I hear the word “fun” used all the time when people talk about Taekwondo training for kids and I must say I’m not a real fan of the FUN word. Enjoyment – now that’s a word I like. Watch kids at play, and they do things without thinking; they get lost in the fun and laughter. That’s not where they need to be when they’re training. During training, their enjoyment comes mainly from two sources: one is from the instructor’s praise when they have been focused on doing something correctly, and the other is when they themselves realize they are doing it well and can feel the technique working the way it’s supposed to.

If an instructor uses games or bribes, such as medals and trophies, to entice children to stay training with them, they are doing the kids a real disservice. Children need structure, encouragement and discipline…with a smile. Self-discipline is the cornerstone of success in any endeavour. Without it, little gets done. With it, you can do almost anything. I’ve been teaching as a full-time instructor for forty years and have had thousands of kids pass through the organisation. Over the years I’ve seen their lives change and develop for the better and many are still with us as instructors, some for almost thirty years. It’s all our instructors at Pacific International Taekwondo doing what they love to do that makes it possible. Thanks PITKD Instructors. Love my job.

Master Dicks

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