​Super Class is a games and fitness class we put together for Friday evenings for kids. It's important for kids to let loose and have fun with their fellow students. So Super Class helps our younger students bond and make friends. I think as adults we sometimes don't value playtime as much as we should. This is how kids exercise, build their social skills, and practice problem solving. So even if Fridays seem like a free-for-all, I know the kids are still developing valuable skills.

​Parents in particular have a hard time making class sometimes. As a new parent, I understand now why making it to class can be difficult when you have little ones. I own a dojo and I've had to miss training because Asher needed me! But, I think I've got some strategies for making it to class when you've got kiddos.

Bring Em!

We are very kid friendly. There are things at the dojo that most kids can't resist, like foam swords, punching bags, a pull up bar, and kick shields. I've seen kids entertain themselves for an entire adult class - and still not want to leave - by playing with those objects alone. Our dojo is one big open space, so you can keep an eye on them while training. Water breaks, class breaks, and partner rotations all give you a chance to check in as well. We also have a desk where kids can work on homework or read while you're training.

Get them Involved

We have a family class that is free for members to attend every Saturday. Kids can practice with their parents and get an idea of what martial arts are all about. We have later kids classes that happen right before adult classes start up. One of our instructors brings his son to the kids class and then stays for the adult one while he watches. It's a great way for the whole family to get involved.

Timing is Everything

There's only so much you can do to time out naps and other activities for little ones. If Asher happens to tire himself out around five thirty, I know I'll make the Basic Jiu-Jitsu class. Sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn't. But I do everything I can to get the timing. It isn't a science, but getting him to sleep, or planning other kid activities to allow yourself time to train is possible. We have another student who drops his daughter off at her guitar lessons while he trains.

Managing kiddos and training isn't always easy. We've tried to make it easier with our scheduling and relaxed, kid friendly environment!

For the past few months Brennan and I have been playing the role of construction workers more than martial arts students. We are thrilled to finally put our hardhats away and tie our belts back on! It has been a long journey to get here, and we have overcome burst water pipes, exploding toilets, stacks upon stacks of carpeting, and the exciting world of Certificate of Occupancy inspections. We've also learned a lot. I now know how to tile floors, build walls, and the difference between an impact driver and a drill! :) :D 

 I want to thank everyone for their support through this process! We could never have done it without the help and encouragement from our fellow training partners, friends, and family. 

Classes have finally started! All our active martial arts programs are accepting new students. Karate, Aikido, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu are steadily growing. We are also working with some truly awesome kids in our Karate, Aikido, BJJ, and Sword Kids Programs.  

Here are some pictures of our progress. The dojo still isn't exactly where we want it to be, but each day we get a little closer to our final vision for Rochester Phoenix Martial Arts.