Karate Kids I

Here, finally, are some picts from class. Every class opens with the students and audience facing each other or the instructor and repeating the ATA/KFK oath:

"Each day I will live by honoring my parents and instructors, by practicing to the
best of my abilities, and by having courtesy and respect for everyone I meet."

Anyone in attendance, whether student, parent or visitor, is included in the expectations of the class. Everyone is united in giving praise, encouragement and support to the students.
I have been deeply impressed with the program and the sincere respect, friendship and courtesy that abounds in the school. We are learning good things, and already making new friends.
This is Ky and his instructor. Mr Sipe is an amazing person who truly enjoys teaching all the little kiddos. Ky's class is 4-6 yr olds. His instructor praises, quietly encourages or disciplines, and has total attention from his class. Ky is loving every minute of it. Here the lesson is to learn a self-defense block.
Ky LOVES to practice kicking. He is pretty good at the whole balance thing for being such a little squirt.
Ky really gets into the whole "YES, SIR!" thing. His whole face scrunches up in total concentration and his eyes never leave his instructor.

The "yes, sir!" and following directions and good discipline are also following through at home. We are seeing really positive results even after only being in class for 2 weeks. It makes me feel good to know that even with the extra challenges that come from taking classes, that the benefits are already far outweighing any concerns. This is the right choice for our family. We are all learning things we might not otherwise learn. We are meeting new friends we would have never met otherwise. We are gaining skills and learning to turn weaknesses into strengths. It is good.