The joy of teaching children martial arts

Teaching children the traditional Korean martial art of Kuk Sool Won™ is a great joy for me. Sure, it can be a bit like herding feral kittens at times, especially when they are tired near the end of the school term. It can also be frustrating when they can’t remember what you have taught them or when siblings fight in class. But these are minor irritations when compared with the overall joy teaching this age group brings.

So why do I enjoy teaching martial arts to children so much?

1. It is fun: Kids like to have fun. It is the main reason they participate in any activity. Martial arts training must be a fun-filled experience for children, otherwise they will quit. In many ways it is structured play, especially for the younger age groups. As adults, we have usually forgotten the joy that comes from play. Our lives become structured and serious. Our martial art becomes about constantly striving to achieve a never-ending series of goals that we set ourselves. We often forget that it can also be a really fun experience. When I am teaching our kids class, I make sure to mix structured training with fun games and activities. These also have hidden benefits, as they emphasise elements like fitness, teamwork, coordination, balance, and speed. But mostly they are focused on the kids having fun and when they are enjoying themselves, teaching is fun for me as well. Smiles are contagious!
2. It is rewarding: If martial arts are fun, kids will often commit for a long period of time. As an instructor, I get to teach them once or twice a week for years. I get to see them grow; physically, emotionally and psychologically. They develop physical self-defence skills and become fitter, stronger, more flexible and coordinated. A martial arts though, doed not just develop a child’s physical skills. Kids grow in confidence, which is especially important for those who are shy or being bullied. They also learn boundaries, interpersonal skills, effective communication, good manners, leadership skills, focus, and respect It is hugely rewarding to know that I am, in some small way, positively influencing the development of so many children who come through our school.
3. It fits with my values: I am motivated by a desire to make a difference. Teaching kids, and especially young girls, the skills to defend themselves and to grow into strong and confident people fits with this value. When we work in an area which is consistent with our values, it is a joy. This doesn’t mean that it will always be enjoyable. Working with children can be challenging, tiring and frustrating. But given that it fits with my value of making a difference to their lives, I find it a deeply satisfying experience, despite the challenges.

Teaching martial arts to kids is not easy and does not come naturally to everyone. While there are many factors that make a good teacher, fundamentally an instructor must have a passion for teaching children. If this exists, the kids will be “smiling, sweating and learning” (using the words of Master Martin Ducker of Kuk Sool Won™ of Lowestoft and Halesworth). This makes for a great environment for everyone.
 
JKN Jane Hurst
First degree black belt and school owner
Kuk Sool Won™ of Onewhero
 
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