Children learn and grow in stages, some children either accelerate compared to their peers, or are growing at a slower pace than normal, therefore it is hard to pinpoint the exact ages and stages of development. However, Tring Martial Arts Academy instructors are trained in the various stages and levels of child development and recognise through our experience since 2005 that child growth and development can be categorizes into four main age groups. The four age groups are: 3 & 4 year olds 5 & 6 year olds 7 to 9 year olds 10 to 14 year olds Within each age group, children show growth and development in four fundamental categories: Physical Intellectual Emotional Social Within each category, children show distinct characteristics that define their stage of development. That’s where Tring Martial Arts Instructors can help. We can help a child to foster proper growth and development because we understand what to expect, and what-not to expect in each particular category, and in turn helping them to learn and grow in a more age-appropriate manner. We use various skills, games, instruction and learning methodologies honed over more than a decade of martial arts instruction to foster a greater sense of achievement within each child, empowering them with the right tools for growth, rewarding them for their efforts and allowing parents and carers to understand that they are continuing to learn despite their individual development needs. This blog article will discuss the Physical Education of children aged 7 to 9 years and 10 to 14 years old. 7 to 9 Years Old Children They typically have weak fine motor skills therefore proficient technique is not quite there yet. Also, they still tend to stumble when their body is in motion therefore advanced movement is still a little sloppy OUR EXPECTATIONS – we expect that this age group at some points during our classes will: Struggle with fine motor skills in their blocks, strikes, kicks and stances Sloppy when jumping, spinning, switching feet, etc. Poor application of stretches and physical exercises (press ups, sit ups etc.) OUR GOALS in each class are that the children should: Demonstrate TECHNIQUE in blocks, strikes, kicks and stances while applying SPEED and power. Demonstrating AGILITY by applying proper motion to movements without looking sloppy Demonstrating FLEXIBILITY by applying proper mechanics to stretching 10 to 14 Years Old Children They typically have great technique and agility, but they can be lazy which leads to sloppiness. OUR EXPECTATIONS – we expect that this age group at some points during our class will: Be sloppy on things that are physically easy for them Act goofy on physical challenges that are initially difficult for them Demonstrate a lack in awareness of how to build upon their strength OUR GOALS in each class are that children should: Demonstrating DEXTERITY to even the smallest details to the task at hand Apply effort to challenging tasks such as building MOMENTUM in their jumps and spins Demonstrating STRENGTH by applying power and mechanics to exercises. Please see our other Blog articles where we discuss the Physical, Intellectual and Emotional Education of Children at Tring Martial Arts. The Instructors at Tring Martial Arts are experts in child development and we recognise that some children will perform above or below the expectations of their age group, and since 2005 we have trained ourselves and our staff to educate everyone considering their emotional, physical, intellectual and social needs. Contact us today on 01442 795001 or see our website.