Discipling Taekwondo Kids
In taekwondo, we teach kids discipline—or to control their actions. They learn that bad behavior is not acceptable in class, and those values carry over into home or in school. However, we all know that we are human, and sometimes kids slip up and misbehave. Whether it’s giving an attitude at home or at school, or doing something they aren’t supposed to, they sometimes act out of line.
Kids enjoy going to taekwondo, so parents might think that a good form of punishment is to take away classes. This is the exact opposite of what we would recommend! We want to work with parents to correct discipline issues. By having multiple people holding them accountable (especially someone that teaches what they like to do) behavior problems can be corrected faster and have a lasting impact. Below we’ve listed what we do.
Work with parents:
Parents that come to us to let us know what problems are happening outside of taekwondo work hand in hand with us on a way to solve the problem. We have a sit down conversation with the student to let them know that behavior is not acceptable, and they will be held accountable in class for their mistakes. We then reiterate what it means to be a black belt, and how that person should act on and off the mat. Then we check in with the parents on a consistent basis to make sure the behavior is getting better, and take actionable steps of correction if not.
Take away privileges:
One of the biggest steps we take when discipline is an issue is to take away a kid’s belt. They worked hard for their belt and earned it, so taking away something that valuable shows them that good things can be taken away for bad behavior. By not wearing their belt on the floor, others know they did something wrong and they are reminded every time they come to class. They have to earn their belt again and only get to wear it when parents agree they can get it back.
Reinforce values:
Coming to taekwondo reinforces values that we teach on a daily basis like discipline, perseverance, focus, attitude, integrity, respect, goals, and confidence. By practicing and being reminded of these values every time they come to class, they will realize what is right and wrong and take steps to act better. They will see others modeling that behavior and be inspired to model it themself. Sometimes kids just need to be reminded of how they should be acting, see others doing it too, so that they change their ways.
At Mueller’s Martial Arts we work with parents and kids to make sure that behavior is not only good during class, but also at home, school, and everywhere else. The last thing we recommend parents do is take away taekwondo as a punishment. Together we team up to make sure that they are becoming the best person possible—you don’t have to hold that up on your own! To learn more about our program, click here.