February News

We came across a great article that we would like to share with you.

As parents, we have all been there! We hope you find this of value:

 

“I don’t like (insert sport here) anymore!”

It’s not new, and it’s not rare. Kids say it all the time. I could go into a whole spiel about the effects of quitting, the benefits of grit, and why a kid should stick it out, but a quick Google search will give you all of that.

How about I just tell you how to fix it? I mean, you know all the other stuff; you don’t want your kid to quit.

You don’t need to be convinced. You need a plan.

Easy enough. Let’s fix this in 3 steps

1) What is your kid doing before it’s time to get ready?

This one hit me, because I didn’t even realize why it was working. My 8 year old loves martial arts, and so did my oldest when she was that age.

My oldest was home-schooled, then she’d join us at the dojo when we started classes, and she’d have to play in the play area while all of the other kids showed up for classes, until it was her turn.

My 8-year old gets home from school and immediately starts working with Granna on homework or extra math or reading.

So, when either of them were told, “Go get your uniform on, it’s time for class.” They literally rushed to get ready. When your choices are between school work and martial arts class, it’s an easy choice.

So, action step 1: in-between school and practice, give other responsibilities. Tablet and TV time are AFTER practice, for a job well done and sweat well-earned.

2) Create a rewarding ritual after practice

I don’t normally condone fast food, but if your kid earned it by working hard in practice, by all means, go get some fries and a milkshake!

Of course there are better alternatives here, but the point is, a ritual of Practice -> Reward creates a connection in your little one’s brain that good things come after working out.

And we all know how beneficial that connection can be in later life.

3) Give your kid a benchmark to reach before they discuss quitting again.

In martial arts, it’s pretty easy to say, “Okay, make it to xyz belt and then we’ll discuss quitting again. Sound fair?”

There are lots of other ways to integrate this into other sports: “Finish this season”, “Compete in the next competition”, “After the Team Party…”

This not only let’s your child know you’re listening and you’re willing to consider their concerns, but it also puts the ball in your court. That child is going to have to be really determined to quit after they’ve just earned their next belt.

Of course, never be willing to make a deal that you aren’t able to handle all outcomes. Meaning, if you’re not willing to let them quit after that benchmark, then that’s not a good deal.

 

Welcome New Member

Eden Ruberti    Blake Etheridge

 

Welcome New BBC/MASTERS Members

Myra Singla      Tim Kanter

 

Thank you for your referals

Zachary Ruberti     Emma Kanter

 

January  Dojo Dates to Note:

• Thursday Ninja Skills Class 7:15 (ongoing every Thursday) free for BBC ;$15 for others (see front desk)
• CLOSED Presidents Day February 20th
• Stripe test week of February 27th   . Make sure you get your testing applications in the week of  February 21st
• Belt Test- Thursday March 2nd  at   6:30pm – Modified Schedule 5pm- Level 1;   5:45- Level 2-4
• Black Belt Club Class- Thursday  February 28th    5:45 pm. Improvised Ninja Tools  FREE to BBC members; non BBC members may attend for $15. See the front desk to register.

Presdinets