Calling all kids - this is your crucial moment!
Sunday 22 May 2022
There is much talk now of the harm done to children by the pandemic and the lockdowns. It is said that they have effectively lost two years in a period of crucial development. Masks stifled visual communication as well as affecting speech development. Isolation damaged the natural process of socialising, and undermined the confidence to relate to others or even get too near to each other.
Find out more about our children's program.
Some say these losses are irretrievable, but we choose to disagree. Certainly, there is that danger, but at Meiji Martial Arts we understand the resilience of kids and their ability to bounce back. We always have. So, if they're not already enrolled, now is the time to do it. Kids, this is your crucial moment! Parents, this is much in your hands!
The first thing a child encounters at Meiji Martial Arts is rather old-fashioned - a hierarchical discipline - and they love it! This is because it's based on respect and self-respect. Contrary to many people's opinion, those qualities are innate in a child - they don't need to be taught, simply acknowledged and encouraged. The essential requirement for acceptance is that the tutor commands natural respect. At Meiji Martial Arts, the Senseis are their heroes. They are being taught by champions. What's more, the champions show equal respect for their young students. Everyone bows to everyone else. This ritual has power. If that raises eyebrows of disbelief, come and see for yourself.
The second thing, paradoxically, is the immediate sense of fun. Good teaching of martial arts, to young people especially, is founded on games. They're here to enjoy themselves, make a lot of noise, use a lot of energy - under direction, and in a safe environment where achievement is for everyone, recognised with the regular awarding of belts.
The third thing is the camaraderie, the teamwork, the looking after each other, the confidence this builds in a Dojo that recognises each person as an individual, woven into the tapestry of a community. They also learn how to deal with bullying (from adults as well as peers).
Children learn life skills at Meiji Martial Arts. They are taught to be accountable, to take responsibility for themselves and each other. They learn the value of listening (you can't master the techniques if you don't listen). They learn to communicate (mutual padding, for example, requires instruction and understanding between two parties).
If all this makes common sense, ask yourself where else today these advantages are promoted and practised. Save the children!
Find out more about our children's program.