As early as 2 and 3 years of age, kids can start reaping the benefits of karate.
At Gabrieles Martial Arts in East Lyme and South Kingstown, R.I., a Kinder Karate program has been implemented to further develop motor skills, respect, and discipline. Parents are the coaches working on the floor with their kickin’ youngsters while instructors direct and guide.
The list of benefits is endless, according to Kinder Karate teacher and co-owner of Gabrieles, Olinda Gabriele.
“Children improve academically. They improve on their focus. They are more confident. They keep their shoulders back and chin up when walking, feeling empowered and strong,” says Gabriele.
And, 2- and 3-year-old participants learn to listen better to their parents, Gabriele believes.
“Children tend to listen better to their teachers. We are trying to reinforce them taking direction from their parents right at that beginning stage, saying ‘Yes, sir’ and ‘Yes, ma’am’ to their parents,” she says.
The main focus is character development skills. One day the emphasis may be teamwork.
“We teach them how to help their teammates and how to work together to achieve ultimate results,” Gabriele explains.
Focus may be the emphasis the next day.
“We’ll tell them things like, when you are talking, make sure your eyes are on the other person.” Kids might play games with their “focus glasses” on to practice keeping eyes on the person to whom they are speaking instead of looking away.
Fitness is another topic.
“We teach them how to run around the room without running into anyone or being out of control,” Gabriele said. Participants are also taught how to do pushups and sit-ups, although at this stage only a couple might be really good.
Form is taught, as is control.
For example, “When kids are in line they need to learn to keep hands to themselves, not to push, and not to scream when they don’t get their way.”
“We are teaching them respect, and we also teach them responsibility,” said Gabriele.
The class is directed by two teachers as well as assistant instructors on the floor.
“Our job is to reinforce the parents, praise them, and high-five them,” she said. “And, we make sure that the drill is introduced correctly.”
Gabrieles has four locations: East Lyme, Groton, Waterford, and South Kingstown, although only the East Lyme and South Kingstown locations presently offer the Kinder
Karate program.
By Susan Cornell
Special to the Times
For more information, visit www.gabrieleskaratekickbox.com or call 860-439-0602.