MARTIAL ARTS GUIDE
Following your child's progress in martial arts
When choosing a class for your child, begin with what you want them to experience: learning something new, taking part in a group activity, or practicing a skill regularly. Ask the academy how the class is organized and how instructors communicate with parents. Set goals that suit your child rather than expecting the same result for everyone.
Choose the appropriate age group
Striking 101's children's program is for ages 4–8, and the kids' program is for ages 9–12. Check the relevant Forest Hills, Brewster, or Brooklyn page and contact the academy about current arrangements. A preschool search does not automatically mean that a class is suitable for a child under 4.
Striking 101 does not teach karate or taekwondo. If you are comparing those options with our programs, ask what skills the local children's class actually covers. Brewster teaches wrestling within Submission Grappling for children and adults; confirm the appropriate wrestling group directly with the academy rather than applying the general children’s age bands to it.
Pick one small goal together
Your child's first goal might be joining the introductory class, listening to an instruction, or asking for help when a movement is confusing. Let your child tell you what they would like to learn. Ask the instructor whether the goal is appropriate and how you can recognize progress.
Talk about the experience after class
Try questions such as "What did you enjoy?", "What felt difficult?", and "What would you like to try again?" A short conversation can be more useful than asking whether your child was the best in the group. If they are repeatedly uncomfortable or reluctant, discuss what is happening with the instructor and review whether the class is a good fit.
Keep expectations realistic
Progress varies. Following instructions during a class does not guarantee improved school grades, and attending martial arts does not make a child immune to bullying. Discuss school concerns with the appropriate teachers or support staff. Avoid judging a child's whole experience by belts, comparisons with classmates, or promises of rapid change.
Ask how practice is supported
Before suggesting practice at home, ask the instructor what is appropriate and what should stay under supervision. Ask about equipment, partner work, and how the class handles different experience levels. Do not assume that all children's programs use the same training format.
Find your academy
Explore the children's or kids' program at Forest Hills, Brewster, or Brooklyn. Contact the local team about the right starting class and current availability. Our guide to choosing children’s martial arts offers more questions to ask before your first visit.
Forest Hills: children · ages 4–8 and kids · ages 9–12.
Brewster: children · ages 4–8 and kids · ages 9–12.
Brooklyn: children · ages 4–8 and kids · ages 9–12.
