WHAT IS TAEKWONDO?

Tae Kwon Do is action philosphy.  It is the Korean art of self-defense.  Literally translated, Tae means foot; Kwon means hand; Do means art.  It is much more than the image of the martial arts’ physical aspect.  It is designed as a nonviolent art and system of complete body exercise as well as being a way of life.  It includes physical techniques, mental disciplines, and a deep philosophy.  Tae Kwon Do emphasizes practice; physically, mentally, and philosophically.

PHYSICALLY: To develop good coordination, gain strength, increase flexibility, and improve cardiovascular conditioning.  From all of these physical practices a strong body and good health results.

MENTALLY: To build self-confidence, gain better judgement, and improve self-control.  From all these mental disciplines, a sound mind results.

PHILOSOPHICALLY: To build true confidence through knowledge in the mind, for better ability to help oneself and others; honesty in the heart, to respect oneself and others; and strength in the body, to live a healthy life.  These three aspects allow one to reach success in one’s ultimate goal; to achieve true happiness and build strong friendships with one another to establish a strong and happy community.

TAEKWONDO IS A GREAT LIFETIME INVESTMENT FOR MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN

Men and women develop the power of positive thinking, which will make it easy to:
* release the stresses of daily life                               * improve perfomance at work
* learn practical self-defense                                       * build self-confidence
* develop excellent physical fitness level              * increase stamina
* lose weight

Benefits for children include:
* build confidence/self-esteem                                   * learn special self-defense skills
* strengthen character & goal setting                        * improve concentration
* learn self-discipline                                                       * improve school grades
* physical & mental fitness                                            * learn respect for oneself and others
* improve balance & coordination                             * improve flexibility
* recommended by physicians for ADD, ADHD

A SPECIAL NOTE TO PARENTS

Your child’s progress in Taekwondo is the direct result of a successful partnership between your child, instructors, and you.  Our experience in teaching hundreds of children has taught us that you can help your child by treating Taekwondo lessons as a regular part of a daily routine that will, over time, yield positive results.  Punishing your child by not taking him/her to class, or by expecting your child to progress at and unrealistic rate, will cause discouragement and frustration.  Do not expect overnight changes or improvements.  These changes will occur only after much time and commitment, not only from the child, but also from the parent.  Parents must remain in control and encourage the child during periods of discouragement when the child wants to quit.  Quitting is easy.  Taekwondo teaches and instills in the child a “stick with it” attitude that will be invaluable for the rest of life.  Please feel free to discuss your child’s progress (tests, problems, etc.) with and instructor.

SEVEN HOME RULES FOR CHILDREN

1.  Children shall greet parents with “Hi, Mom!” or “Hi, Dad!” when entering the house and tell parents “Goodbye!” when           leaving.
2.  Children shall always be respectful to their parents, teachers and elders.
3.  Children shall be kind to their family members
4.  Children shall keep their household neat and clean
5.  Children shall clean their hair, ears, body and teeth daily.
6.  Children shall not interrupt adult conversation.
7.  Children shall follow the “Recipe for Straight A’s” daily.

RECIPE FOR STRAIGHT A’S
* When you come home from school, open the refrigerator and have a piece of fruit and glass of milk.
* Open your books and review what you have studied today.
* Do all your homework
*Children who do not obey their parents, may be reduced in rank.