Parents bring their children along to the “The Dragons" classes for a wide range of reasons:-
- to combat verbal or physical school bullying
- to make sure they can look after themselves in the future
- to teach them discipline
- to improve their physical abilities
- to give better self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-image
- to use up some energy
...or, equally as important, their child requires to discover "The Force" or be taught all the skills possessed by Po — the Kung Fu Panda!
Ultimately, we will teach a self-defence framework that will become second nature but along the way we try to address all these concerns and aspirations. We provide a set of strategies to deal with situations using humour, conflict resolution work and focussed role playing.
The "fighting" element is the last resort and all of my students know that if they use their skills outside of class for anything other than a valid reason, they will never be taught again at my school.
But, learning to "fight" is an essential part of teaching children how to survive in the adult world. It is not simply about being physically tough but also, mentally and emotionally. Giving them training that promotes:-
- tenacity and determination
- an ability to "dig deep" when things are tough
- understanding that you have to work hard to achieve your goals
- acceptance that you will get things wrong along the way
- others may be better than you at certain things
- physical and mental discipline
- an underlying sense of humour and spirit of fun
There is no doubt that our children will face tough times in life — physically, mentally and emotionally and, as parents, we need to give them the skills and teach strategies that allow them to deal with them. They need to understand how to face successes and failures equally. Teaching them to "play" and giving loads of "love and support" is really important but they will also need many other personal skills to get through life's journey. Sometimes it takes someone outside of their normal environment to make them understand this. Of course, we want them to be successful at life and, most importantly, to be happy.
As they say, don't just reach your expectations - blow them out of the water! Oh no, that is what I say!!
—Sifu Steve