Gain Control of Your Kids Class

I'm a 3rd degree black belt and instructor at Korean Karate Academy in PA. When I first started teaching, the kids classes were the most challenging. Here's some tips!

When practicing katas or forms:
To have them stay focused during their katas, you kihap (yell) for every step or technique and they must call out together what the technique is called. So if the first move is a low block, you kihap, and they do a low block together and yell out "Low block!". This prevents chattering during katas. Then, if your having problems with the level they are performing their kata, since you have only a few students, have them sit against the wall and call them up one by one to "perform" this kata in front of your group. Then, say one positive thing and one thing that could improve with their kata.

Exercise, play games, and keep them busy:
And, last but not least, keep them occupied. Between each kata you teach them, have them do a set of 10 jumping jacks, push ups, sit up, swat jumps, or shoulder taps. Then. have them race against each other to see who finishes first. This gives them no time in between exercises to chat or slack off. Then, if they are still being chatty or disrespectful, have them snap their arms to attention and stand "like a black belt" in self control practice. This exercise they need to stand "like a statue" and no moving or talking. -Make it a game! If they even move a finger or toe, have them sit down until the last person is standing. Remember to have fun! Here's a great game I play with them- Sensei Says. It's like Simon Says but you have them perform their techniques they need to know for their next rank. Tell them this game works on focus and control and their techniques for their next belt. They will be thrilled!

Gain their respect, increase their spirit:
As for respect, be confident and loud. Strong voice, pose, and high energy. If you give them no energy, they will give you no energy in return. When you ask them a yes or no question, have them answer yes or no mam. If they don't, put your hand up to your ear and ask "Yes mam?" in a stern voice or have them do 5 "spirit" pushups. Explain to them what respect and spirit is and have them give you an example.

Have a chatterbox in class?
Sit them in the corner! Its embarrassing for kids to have to be in time out in front of their friends. If you have issues with your kids when they are doing partner exercises (like self defense or one-steps) have them line up in front of you and you do the self defense or one-step with everybody. If they cry, don't baby them. Tell them they can't rejoin class until they wipe all their tears away. Then, explain to the class what happens when that certain behavior is shown and how it affects the class as a whole.

These things help you gain control because believe me, it's hard to connect with children in the beginning.

What if they don't like me!?
It's doesn't matter if they "like you". Make them respect you, be stern, but allow time for fun, and they will like you for the instructor you are. Good Luck!

Thanks to Black Belt Mama for posting a series of questions concerning new karate instructors on her blog.