Little Tigers (Ages 3-4) Classes

Spark a Lifelong Love of Learning: Our Program for Young Dragons

Three through Four year-olds are naturally energetic and brimming with curiosity. They excel at creative thinking and problem-solving, making them ideal candidates to explore the world of martial arts! 

However, we’ve noticed a gap in traditional programs that often treat these young learners the same as their older peers. This can be frustrating for young children who still lack the fundamental motor skills and focus needed to keep pace with older students.

Here’s where our program shines! We’ve designed a unique curriculum specifically tailored to the developmental stage of 3 through 4 year-olds. Our classes nurture their social and intellectual curiosity through engaging activities and games.

But that’s not all! While fostering their love of learning, we also establish a strong foundation in basic martial arts skills. This sets them up for future success in our program and beyond.

So, what does this look like? Imagine a structured yet playful environment where young dragons (that’s what we call them!) learn basic kicks, punches, and blocks through interactive exercises, games, and stories. This approach keeps them engaged, motivated, and most importantly, sets them on a path to long-term success in martial arts.

Here’s an overview for the stages of development of children ages 3 through 5: There are four categories namely Physically, Intellectually, Emotionally and Socially

PHYSICALLY : Building Strong Foundations: Movement and Coordination for Young Dragons

At this age (3-4 years old), young children are naturally energetic and full of life! While their bodies are constantly on the move, they’re still developing essential skills like muscle control and coordination. This means they might stumble sometimes, and their strength in core, legs, and arms is still growing.

Our program focuses on:

  • Fun and engaging activities: Through playful games and exercises, we help young dragons develop better control over their bodies and improve their coordination.
  • Building strength: We gradually introduce exercises that target core, leg, and arm strength, setting them up for success in future training.
  • Establishing good habits: We emphasize proper form and technique from the start, creating a strong foundation for their martial arts journey.

 

INTELLECTUALLY: Learning Through Play: Building Listening Skills and Body Awareness

At this stage (3-4 years old), young children are naturally energetic and eager to learn. While their ability to retain complex instructions might still be developing, they excel at absorbing information through play and exploration.

Our program focuses on:

  • Making learning fun: Through engaging games and activities, we help young dragons improve their listening skills and ability to follow directions.
  • Building body awareness: We incorporate playful exercises that help them identify and differentiate between their left and right sides of their body.
  • Gradual progression: We introduce instructions in a way that’s manageable and age-appropriate, setting them up for success as they develop their cognitive abilities.

EMOTIONALLY: Building Self-Regulation: Staying Focused and Managing Energy

Preschoolers (ages 3-4) are a bundle of energy and excitement! While their attention might naturally wander when things aren’t engaging, they also get carried away when emotions run high.

Our program focuses on:

  • Developing focus: Through interactive activities and games, we help young dragons learn to concentrate and maintain attention, even with distractions.
  • Managing energy: We teach them healthy ways to channel their enthusiasm and express emotions in a positive manner.
  • Building self-control: We create a positive learning environment where children can practice self-regulation and develop the ability to control their movements, especially during moments of excitement.

SOCIALLY: Building Camaraderie: Growing Together as Young Dragons

Preschoolers (ages 3-4) are naturally social creatures who thrive on interaction and play. While their competitive spirit may be starting to emerge, they’re still learning valuable social skills like teamwork and sportsmanship. 

Our program focuses on:

  • Fostering a positive and inclusive environment: We create a space where young dragons can develop a love for martial arts alongside their peers, celebrating each other’s successes.
  • Introducing teamwork: Through collaborative games and activities, we introduce the concept of working together towards a common goal.
  • Encouraging healthy competition: We create a fun and engaging atmosphere where the focus is on personal growth and self-improvement, not just winning.
  • Building good sportsmanship: We celebrate effort and participation, and teach young dragons how to win with grace and lose with dignity.

By understanding the stages of development of 3 through 4 year old, we were able to select an age-appropriate skills that make up the Little Tigers Program that comprises of FOCUS, TEAMWORK, CONTROL, MEMORY, BALANCE, DISCIPLINE, FITNESS and COORDINATION