The IMAF "Tiger Cubs Karate " Program

"Tiger Cubs Karate " is a pre- martial arts program designed specifically for 3 and 4 year olds. Our program provides a fun and nurturing atmosphere in which we work to develop the children’s’ capacity in several areas that are important foundations for the child’s individual growth and development. These areas are: developing the child's self-control, balance , co-ordination, flexibility, strength, memory and team work skills ( ability to interact with other children in a group setting).

The program is a mix of games drill's or activities designed to introduce and reinforce these skills in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

Class duration is 30 minutes and  meets once a week and the children are given a free uniform with their initial sign-up.

Many of the children that have taken our "Tiger Cubs Karate" program and subsequently move on to Children's Martial Arts program usually display skill levels significantly above the other children in the program that have not participated in the program.

"Class Structure"

Before class begins the instructor will informally chat with the children, as a group, inquiring about their day in order to work on their verbalization skills and to make them comfortable with the environment. The children then "line up" in response to the "formation" command. We proceed with basic warm up exercises and with stretching, sit-ups and push-ups. Here the children are exposed to "exercise" as a way of life at an early age - A habit that will hopefully stay with them through their lifetime.

Self Control & Discipline

Teachers facilitate the development of self-control in children by using positive guidance techniques such as modeling and encouraging expected behavior, redirecting children to a more acceptable activity and setting clear limits. Teacher’s expectations match and respect children’s developing capabilities. - National Association for The Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

In the "Tiger Cubs Karate" program, we focus on discipline while the children are having fun. The children are introduced to "rules" to follow such as where to put their shoes before entering the mat, where to sit before class starts, how to line up on command in a "ready stance", bowing to the instructor, and others. These behaviors become part of the routine of the class that we reinforce each time. We know that it can take time for children to become accustomed to these new "rules" and we have many fun ways of reinforcing these skills.

"Quiet Time" - during class we randomly insert quiet time, a period where the children have to be perfectly still and quiet for 20 seconds. At first this is a new and "silly" game. Not long into the program, however, the children actually freeze where they are and patiently wait for the 20-second count! And they are proud of this newly developed self-discipline!

Balance & Co-ordination, Flexibility & Strength

Children have opportunities to use large muscles, including running, jumping and balancing. - National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

The class program is centered around "martial arts" which is widely recognized as an excellent way to instill and develop coordination, strength, discipline and self-confidence in children. Most exercises are set into a game format so the child has fun while learning.

Memory

In this segment the child will be required to associate  different skills or techniques with a specific object or symbols. We utilize flash cards and different sounds etc. as memory tools.

The IMAF 's "Tiger Cubs Karate" Program - Helping build tomorrows leaders today - in a fun and nurturing environment!