You may have noticed some changes in how we are transitioning kids between classes. We are working on helping kids settle into class with more focus and energy. An example of these changes is moving kids away from playing before class and instead using that time to work on their curriculum and ask instructors questions.
Perhaps the most obvious change is the introduction of Mat Chats. During the five minutes before each class, an instructor will sit down with students to discuss a topic of the week. Topics will range from the practical (How do you earn Life Skills Stripes?) to the more philosophical (What is focus and how do we improve it?).
These Mat Chats will give us the opportunity to deep-dive with students on topics that are an important part of martial arts training and being part of the TMAA community, but that we don’t really have time to cover during the normal course of a class.
It also gives us the chance to get kids ready for their class. Transitions between activities can be challenging for kids. Mat Chats help kids make the mental shift from rushing through Austin traffic to learning martial arts by giving them a few minutes to adjust to the Dojang environment and get engaged with their peers and instructor.
We encourage families to have students arrive with enough time to put on their uniforms and join the Mat Chats. This will help classes run more smoothly, improve learning outcomes for students and give your children the opportunity learn more about the ideas and philosophy that makes martial arts such a valuable part of a kid’s life!
