Reader Question:
I am an experienced martial artist and I intend to pass my knowledge on to my 5 year old son. I have never taught someone of that age (let alone my own son), I am seeking some advice on some reference material that I can use to make this as fun for he and I as possible.
Thank you,
Dave Ruhl
Answer from Sang H. Kim:
Dear David,
Congratulations on your endeavour to share your arts with your son.
Here are some suggestions that might help you in teaching. Since I have always believed that good teaching begins with a good understanding of myself in the arts, here is what I have developed for those who want to teach martial arts:
I suggest you read Teaching Martial Arts which will give you perspective and direction as well as a good overview of the possible contents for teaching and how to modify what you have for your student's needs. In both Teaching Martial Arts and the Martial Arts Instructor's Desk Reference, there are special sections on teaching children that you will find especially helpful for teaching your son. Children have very different needs than adults and should be taught accordingly.
Here is a general idea of what makes up a good class session to help you get started:
- a brief introduction
- warm up-10 minutes
- basic skill introduction
- practice time
- review
- introduce the next skill
- practice time
- review
- simple skill applications
- give feedback and encouragement-very briefly
- cool down
Of course you can change what I wrote any way you want. Whatever works for you, stick to it and revise it as you progress. Good luck and I wish you a wonderful journey!
Sincerely,
Sang H. Kim